Paul wrote Ephesians from prison. Seems fitting when you consider the overarching tone of the letter… Chapters 1-3 read like chains falling off and prison doors swinging wide open by the power of scandalous, justifying grace. Chapters 4-6 read like they are describing how to enjoy your newfound freedom, glorifying the One who freed you by empowering, sanctifying grace. This letter is about how we are rescued, renewed and reformed by the Father’s grace in Christ, by the Spirit. The only way to understand the chapters and verses in this letter, is to read them in light of the gracious […]

It’s something to be a person of integrity with good moral standing, a law-abiding citizen, respected by your family members, coworkers and peers. “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold” (Proverbs 22:1) Some men would die to maintain their name, reputation or family reputation. In some ways it’s like branding, being set apart. It’s so important for companies to maintain their brand. It keeps their customers happy and confident. There are some brands I stick with because I know they never disappoint. This goes for restaurants, food in the […]

As I’ve trained student athletes over the years, I have enjoyed asking them for their favorite memory verse. Invariably, the majority of them would be quick to recite from memory the shortest verse in all of sacred Scripture, John 11:35, “Jesus wept.” Why is it the Shortest Verse? I find it quite remarkable that our Lord Jesus Christ wept. However, it’s really not extraordinary that He did weep — remember that He was not only fully God, but He was also fully man — but it is the context in which He wept that is so remarkably striking as to […]

  Whether it’s Fathers Day, Mothers Day or any other major holiday, one of the most popular gifts to give to your loved ones is a picture. Kids often draw pictures and others print and frame pictures because pictures have a way of capturing moments of love and communicating deep feelings of love. As people say, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” Well, in the end of John’s Gospel (see John 19:25-27), he gives his readers a beautiful picture of love between Jesus and his mother. Taken at the cross, painted with words and framed in Scripture, it’s a […]