For part 1, click here. For part 2, click here. In the previous posts we’ve placed this passage in the larger context of James’ argument and in the larger context of the theology of both Paul and James. And we began unfolding James’ argument in the first part of the passage. In this post we’ll…
The first chapter of Matthew is designed to tell us the origin of the person whom we call Savior and Lord. Matthew begins with the genealogy of Jesus of Nazareth. Note carefully the wording of verse 16. It relates that “Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus.” Prior to this…
[Editor’s note: As you see by the #4 in the title, this is a series of posts. I was talking to brother de Bruyn this morning, doing an interview for an upcoming P&D podcast. “Off-air” I mentioned to him how much I was enjoying these posts on his blog and asked to use one of…
Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow (1 Peter 1:11). “We should read reverently putting off our shoes from off our feet as Moses did at the burning bush, for if…
There is a growing movement within evangelical Christianity and fundamentalism that treats the revival era, especially the century between 1850 and 1950 with disdain. I am concerned that we do this to our own hurt. While there were excesses within that era—especially the formulaic manipulation of Finney-ism–God also did wonderful works of grace, not only…
During our Annual Meeting held last summer at Faith Baptist Bible College in Ankeny, Iowa, our theme was “Reclaiming the Great Commission.” Besides the preaching sessions, our speakers and other leaders conducted several outstanding Workshop sessions, most of which we recorded. We offer them along with the audio of the main messages. Dave Saxon conducted a…
Click here to read part 1. The meaning of James 2:14–26 must be understood by a careful understanding of the words and phrases in context. The passage may be outlined as follows: An Inoperative Faith is Useless (James 2:14–19) The Key Question (James 2:14) The Illustration (James 2:15–16) The Answer (James 2:17) The Challenge (James…
It’s easy to get whipped into anger and indignation these days. With social media, we hear people’s conflicting opinions more than we used to. News outlets keep the injustices of the world constantly before our eyes. Some time ago, I noticed the harmful effect of stirred-up women in Acts 13:50. In the KJV this passage…
Much has been written about mentoring. The abbreviated mission statement that serves as the motto for International Baptist College and Seminary is “mentoring God-fearing leaders into ministry.” Mentoring is an integral part of the ethos of our college and a central aspect of our leadership development. Yet while mentoring is the process, it is not…
Paul reminded the church at Corinth of the Israelites’ repeated disobedience to God in their journey through the wilderness. He warned them that they could easily fall into such careless living if they were not careful because these temptations are common to all men. While it is true that such temptations are common, it is…