October 17, 2011

The Honest and Good Heart

Wheat

In the previous article we looked at the parable of the sower, noting the four different soils which represented four different types of hearts. Each one responded differently to the word when it was sown among them. Despite these differences, we saw that the message (the seed, the word of God) was not changed. Rather than trying to change the message, we should strive to develop the “honest and good heart” (Luke 8:15) that Jesus said would be receptive to His saving gospel.

Jesus explained the illustration of the good soil: “But the seed in the good soil, these are the ones who have heard the word in an honest and good heart, and hold it fast, and bear fruit with perseverance” (Luke 8:15). Let us be reminded of what the honest and good heart will do and how we can develop this type of heart.
Continue Reading

Filed Under: Articles Tagged With: , , , , ,
May 16, 2011

For The Truth

Bible

“For we can do nothing against the truth, but only for the truth” (2 Corinthians 13:8).

In this verse, Paul was not discussing what is or is not possible. Rather, he was speaking of the determination of faithful disciples of Christ. We must choose one of two sides – we can be for the truth or against the truth. As Christians who have committed to being on the side of truth, let us notice what we can do to benefit and support it.
Continue Reading

Filed Under: Articles Tagged With: , , , , , , ,
September 14, 2010

A Noble Reception of the Gospel

After being run out of town in Thessalonica, Paul was sent to Berea. Here he continued doing the very thing that had previously stirred up opposition against him – teaching the gospel (Acts 17:1-5, 10). Fortunately, these individuals in Berea were “more noble-minded” than the ones Paul encountered in the last city. What was it that made them noble-minded? It had to do with their reception of the gospel.

“Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11).

This verse shows us three reasons why the Bereans were called “noble-minded.” In addition, we can see how we should receive preaching and teaching today.
Continue Reading

Filed Under: Articles Tagged With: , , , , ,
April 3, 2009

Hearers and Doers

James 1:22

“Therefore, putting aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls. But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves” (James 1:21-22).

James made a contrast between those who are hearers only and those who are doers. When it comes to receiving the word of God, we must do more than just hear it; we must practice it. Our obedience is tied to the salvation of our souls (cf. 1 Peter 1:22).
Continue Reading

Filed Under: Articles Tagged With: , , , ,