So the parable that Corey just read is part of a really large grouping of parables in this chapter of Matthew. There are a lot of parables that Jesus is hitting his disciples with here. Not just his disciples. He had just been preaching to crowds on the Sea of Galilee. And then he was retreating now into Peter’s house—this is really what historians and theologians say is most likely the setting of these parables that he’s giving just to his twelve.
Remember when your first child was born? Remember when you got married? Remember when you first learned how to ride a bike? How about when you came to faith? There's something very powerful about remembering the past. It stirs up emotions. It brings about gratitude. But for others, there is pain. I'd rather not think about it. It's just too much.
There are riches, and then there are true riches. Now, what's the difference between the two? The riches that we accumulate in this life are wealth, property, and possessions. Many live their lives in pursuit of stuff, only to be dissatisfied, wondering: At what point did all my possessions take possession of me?
In the very unlikely event of an active shooter situation, you have three options: run, hide, fight.A gunman enters, and at that very moment, there are only seconds to respond. The first thing to do is evacuate as quickly and calmly as possible. Go to the building across the street. But if you can’t escape, you got to run and hide. But if you’re unable to lock it down, time to fight...
In life, we often face what seem to be many locked doors. If only I can find the right key to the right door, we'll have access to all the treasures of contentment and satisfaction. But not only are there many locked doors, there seem to be many different types of keys...
Transparency International defines corruption as the abuse of entrusted power for private gain. This organization ranks the world’s countries with what’s called a corruption perception index. Denmark is apparently the least corrupt. South Sudan the most.
Recently, I read a story about two church planters, both of which loved the Lord Jesus and sought to help others know Christ for the glory of God. However, the one led with an agenda rather than a vision for the kingdom. He worked hard, constantly trying to convince people that he had the best ideas for how the church should operate.
People pleaser or God pleaser? Well, that's a great question. As a Christian, I certainly want to please God in all that I do. But I find myself in the position of wanting to please others. So how do I understand the difference between the two or some combination of both? Here's a simple way to evaluate your motives...