In Romans 5, we see a few intentional patterns at worth through repeated phrases. First there is the idea of “much more.” If we were “redeemed by his blood”, then “much more” will we be saved…from wrath” (v9). If enemies were “reconciled by his death” then “much more will we be saved by his life”. … Continue reading Patterns in Romans 5
Category: Bible Study
Why had the woman at the well had five husbands?
Jesus meets a woman at a well and asks her for water. Then, when she expresses surprise at a Jew asking her for water, he offers her living water. When he tells her to get her husband, she explains that she cannot and he confirms she has spoken the truth. She has in fact had… Continue reading Why had the woman at the well had five husbands?
What is Paul’s main argument in Romans 1-5?
We tend to preach through books of the Bible like Romans taking short passages at a time. That’s understandable and necessary because there is much deep and rich material to cover. However, it is also helpful from time to time to take a step back and look at the whole big picture to see the… Continue reading What is Paul’s main argument in Romans 1-5?
Romans 5:18-21
Paul now reinforces his point and the comparison between Adam’s act and Christ’s act. Through the one sinful act, condemnation comes to all men, through the one righteous act. All are justified. Note that we already have been given a qualification of “all” in verse 17, those who benefit from Jesus are those who receive… Continue reading Romans 5:18-21
Signs and symbols
It might be tempting for some to skip over the next 15 chapters of Exodus. However, we should know better than to ignore a significant section of Scripture. It looks like we merely have a list of instructions here, building instructions, interior design instructions, clothing instructions etc. Yet, if we believe that all Scripture is… Continue reading Signs and symbols
Romans 5:15-17
The gift (charisma) is not like the wrong-doing or transgression. Although we will see that there is a comparison to be made, sin through one man’s action, life through one man’s action, the two men and acts are incomparable. We have another “how much more”, the gift is better than the transgression. The one man,… Continue reading Romans 5:15-17
Lost brothers
I’ve enjoyed reflecting on Luke 15 recently. Here’s an alternative approach to narrative preaching through the chapter with a focus on the parable of the prodigal son.
When you’re not lost
I’ve been enjoying reflecting further on the parables about being lost in Luke 15. Once you’ve established what the main punchline of a Bible passage is, I believe that it is legitimate to draw out further reflections and insights. It’s possible to be lost and know you are lost. It’s also possible to be lost… Continue reading When you’re not lost
Lost sons and lost brothers
Two caterpillars are sitting on a wall when a butterfly goes past. One says to the other “You won’t get me up in one of those things.” Jokes and parables have something in common. They rely on a good punchline. The punchline, not just to the parable of the prodigal son but to all… Continue reading Lost sons and lost brothers
Three letters that transformed the World
On the face of it, Paul’s letter to Philemon looks like a private, personal appeal and yet, there it appears as a public instruction in Scripture. Given that Paul includes others in his address and particularly the whole church community meeting in a home suggests he intended it as such. What is it about Paul’s… Continue reading Three letters that transformed the World
