“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.” Matthew 7:13-14 We want to believe that it … Continue reading The Narrow Way
Kingdom of God
The Golden Rule
Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. Matthew 7:12 Jesus just got through telling those gathered on the mount to ask, seek, and knock until they received from God the things they needed to do His will. But He adds this instruction. He tells … Continue reading The Golden Rule
ASK – SEEK – KNOCK
After Jesus laid out the basics of how the Kingdom works and how to expect Holy Spirit to lead us, He offers keys to kingdom blessings that require our initiation. Let’s see what He has to say. Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be … Continue reading ASK – SEEK – KNOCK
What Do You Value? Part 3 – Do Not Worry
As we finish out chapter 6 today, Jesus speaks to the crowd about worry compared to life in the Kingdom. In Kingdom life, worrying about material things is dishonoring to God and is a sin. To be fearful about the supply of future needs is to be guilty of unbelief. It calls into question the … Continue reading What Do You Value? Part 3 – Do Not Worry
What Do You Value Part 2
As we continue in Matthew 6, we find this scripture nestled in with counsel about what we value. What do our eyes have to do with what we value? Let’s see. “The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your … Continue reading What Do You Value Part 2
What Do You Value? Part 1
Before we start, let’s consider how Jesus began this sermon. He began with the beatitudes, describing the character traits of those who are part of His kingdom. The Jews were looking for a Messiah that would bring material blessings to their country. Rome had drained them dry of all their resources. They were hoping for … Continue reading What Do You Value? Part 1
Fasting, a Forgotten Key to Deliverance
When was the last sermon you heard about fasting? When was the last time you heard someone say they fasted from food? Fasting was a common practice in Jesus’ day. God commanded fast for one day out of the year, on Yom Kippur-The Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:19-31). We have several accounts of fasting in … Continue reading Fasting, a Forgotten Key to Deliverance
One More Word About Forgiveness
The Lord's Prayer is repeated regularly around the world in Christian churches of every denomination. Still, this last word of importance is often overlooked. Forgiveness is mentioned in the prayer itself, but Jesus knew it needed added attention. Jesus came into the world not only to reconcile us to God but with one another. He … Continue reading One More Word About Forgiveness
Petitions and Praise in the Lord’s Prayer
All we have comes from God. Therefore, it is to Him we return, when we stand in need. We have covered the introduction to this prayer and have addressed Who we are speaking to. Now we will look at more of the petitions Jesus suggests. Give us this day our daily bread. Matthew 6:11 This request … Continue reading Petitions and Praise in the Lord’s Prayer
Our Father Who Art in Heaven, Hallowed be Your Name
Let’s look at the beginning of this prayer. After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Matthew 6:9 KJV In Jewish culture, people do almost everything in community. They do very little as individuals. We’ve revered Daniel for identifying with the sins of Israel in Daniel 9. Still, … Continue reading Our Father Who Art in Heaven, Hallowed be Your Name