By David Peter, This is the second in a series of sermons based on texts from 1 Thessalonians. The series is entitled “Fatherly Encouragement.” Paul writes as the spiritual father to his children who need guidance and encouragement to grow in faith and faithful living. Fatherly Encouragement toward Motivation Focus Statement The motivation for advancing God’s ..
By David Schmitt Textual Notes In this reading, Jesus moves from the world of the imagination, where he tells a parable (vv. 9–14), to the world of his ministry, where he blesses children (vv. 15–17). Both of these worlds are joined by a common problem and a common theme. The common problem is contempt for others, ..
By Thomas Egger At the Jerusalem temple (Mt 21:23), as the great feast approaches, a high-profile religious confrontation takes place. Jesus has entered the city amidst shouts of “Hosanna,” hailed by the throngs as the son of David (21:1–9). Now the religious leaders lock horns with Jesus, challenging his authority, attempting to trap him in his ..
by Henry Rowold Razing Cain and Raising Cains Chapter 4 of Genesis is best seen as a continuation, an extension (and polyphonic echo) of the dynamic unleashed in chapter 3. Not only was child bearing painful, but so was child rearing—for those first children “gotten … with the help of the Lord.” Tragically, that first ..