Living Biblically

How should we live as Christians in a world that is not our ultimate home? In his devotional, Jeffrey D. Johnson reminds us that while we live in a world that feels like Babylon, our ultimate hope lies beyond it. We are encouraged to have hope, even if our current circumstances seem endless. Johnson stresses that our lives are not just about waiting for the Lord's return or escaping our current si...

What is the secret to flourishing in old age? Alexander Strauch explores the biblical insights on aging, emphasizing that those who are planted in the house of the Lord will flourish. Being part of the Lord's community provides security and growth, enabling believers to bear fruit even in their later years. Strauch shares his personal aspiration to remain fruitful as he ages, highlighting the impo...

Fathers, how can you be a godly influence in your children's lives? Dr. Joel Beeke explains in this video that fathers are called to teach and model for their children how to live the Christian life. They ought to realize that their actions are more impactful than what they say to your children. Children should see their fathers modeling what a godly husband should be by living sacrificially as Ch...

How should Christians live faithfully amidst a world that feels foreign and challenging? Jeffrey D. Johnson explores the two extremes that often characterize Christian living in history—complete withdrawal from society and total immersion without distinction. He references groups like the radical Anabaptists who sought to separate entirely, forsaking political involvement and societal obligations....

Why does Psalm 1, which focuses on the law of the Lord, open the book of Psalms, a collection primarily of praise and worship? Conrad Mbewe explores this intriguing placement of Psalm 1, noting that while the Psalms are often associated with worship and praise, the first psalm sets a foundational tone. It serves as a preparatory guide for worshipers, urging them to turn away from worldly philosoph...

What does it mean to always abound in the work of the Lord? Alexander Strauch reminds us of the profound truth that being involved in the Lord's work is not reserved solely for church leaders or missionaries. It's a calling for every Christian. Reflecting on the man who founded their church, he notes the dedication and time invested in God's work, despite the individual's other commitments. The me...

How can Christians contribute to the stability of their communities? Pooyan Mehrshahi's message draws inspiration from Jeremiah's exhortations, emphasizing the importance of Christians actively engaging in their communities. As believers, we are encouraged to build houses, plant gardens, and establish families, reflecting a commitment to the stability and flourishing of society. This approach invo...

What does it mean for mothers to be builders in the Christian home? Dr. Joel Beeke explores the significant calling of mothers in shaping a godly household. He emphasizes that mothers are not only tasked with nurturing their children but also serve as central figures in portraying a happy Christian home. In a world often influenced by unbiblical ideals, a mother’s role is to exemplify modesty, che...

How do we truly become a part of the church body as described in the Bible? Jeffrey D. Johnson reminds us that the church is not just about attendance or entertainment. As believers, we are interwoven like threads in a basket, making us interdependent on one another. This interconnectedness is crucial for our spiritual maturity. Just as an eye cannot function without a hand, we need the diverse gi...

What does it take to rebuild the Church of Jesus Christ in today's world? Kevin Swanson highlights the urgent need for a dual reformation, both of the church and the Christian family. The breakdown of the church's influence on culture stems from its fragmentation and susceptibility to worldly ideas. Swanson emphasizes that without reforming both the family unit and the church, the salt and light i...

What should the righteous do when the foundations are destroyed? In his sermon, Conrad Mbewe explains that the crumbling of foundations began with the fall of man in Genesis 3. Sin tainted human nature, altering the course of humanity. Yet, the answer is found in Jesus Christ, the seed of the woman, as promised by God. This promise was not only a solution but a fulfillment in Christ, urging the ri...

How can parents effectively prepare their children to navigate a secular world while rooted in Christian values? Alexander Strauch emphasizes the necessity for parents, especially fathers, to engage actively with their children, teaching them to understand their place in today's humanistic society. He highlights Deuteronomy 6 as a foundational Scripture for this task, urging fathers to seize every...

How should we, as Christians, view the presence of children in our lives? Robert Bosley challenges the common societal perspective that children are merely an inconvenience or a burden. He argues that Christians should adopt a different mindset, recognizing children as a heritage and a gift from God. This perspective should bring joy rather than distress. While it doesn't necessarily mean having a...

How can young men maintain their faith in a culture that opposes their beliefs? Pooyan Mehrshahi emphasizes the importance of spiritual disciplines and moral integrity for young men in challenging environments like Babylon. Like Joseph in Potiphar's house, they must guard their hearts, recognizing that they are continually in the presence of the Lord. The key is to resist the influences of a secul...

How can children reflect their faith in their everyday lives? Dr. Joel Beeke emphasizes that the biblical model of building, dwelling, and planting applies not only to parents but to children as well. Children are called to follow in the footsteps of their parents as pilgrims, pleading for their own salvation and believing in Christ alone. They are encouraged to obey and honor their parents faithf...

Why would Martin Luther choose to plant a tree if he knew the Lord was returning the next day? Jeffrey D. Johnson explores this intriguing perspective, drawing from Martin Luther's reputed response about planting a tree even when the Lord's return seems imminent. The act of planting a tree symbolizes looking beyond immediate gratification, focusing on the long-term and future generations. It refle...

Why is reviving the family economy vital in today's world? In the past few decades, the traditional family economy has seen a significant decline, especially in the Western world. Kevin Swanson highlights how, over time, children and spouses have been drawn into corporate and state systems, leading to the erosion of the family's economic unit. Historically, families worked together, with children...

Why does the African culture hold having children in such high regard? Conrad Mbewe highlights the cultural perspective in Africa, where having children is seen as honorable and a blessing from the Lord. In this context, the idea of marriage without children is almost unthinkable, as there is a belief that God has not blessed those without children. This view aligns with the Old Testament teaching...

How can we actively serve the Lord while waiting for His return? Alexander Strauch emphasizes the importance of being active for the Lord and warns against passivity and despondency. He points out that the New Testament is filled with commands to serve, pray, and care for one another. This is a call to action, reminding us that there is much to do for the kingdom of God. We must be vigilant agains...

What role should a church play in our lives as Christians? Robert Bosley emphasizes the significance of recognizing the community aspect of Christianity. While God saves individuals, He also calls them to be part of a larger community that extends beyond just Sunday gatherings. The notion that one can worship God in isolation, such as on a fishing boat, rather than within the congregation, overloo...

How should Christians respond when confronted with tyranny? Pooyan Mehrshahi emphasizes that Christians must first seek guidance from God when facing tyrannical actions from the government or any establishment. This guidance is found in the Bible, where we seek biblical principles, ensuring that our actions align with God's commands. By looking to examples such as Daniel and his friends, as well a...

What does it mean to "occupy until I come" in our daily lives? In his devotional, Paul Carrington explains that when the Lord instructs us to occupy until His return, it means to persist in doing His will consistently. This command is not limited by time, whether it be 50 years or 5,000 years, but rather a call to focus on advancing His kingdom. It involves being engaged in the Master's work and l...

How can we raise godly children in a culture that often opposes biblical family values? In his devotional titled "Raising Children in Babylon," Dr. Joel Beeke emphasizes the biblical mandate to be fruitful and multiply. He challenges the modern view of family planning that prioritizes personal ambitions over raising a godly seed. Drawing from the practices of the Puritans, Dr. Beeke reminds us tha...

Why does God allow evil nations to exist, and what purpose do they serve for the church? In his message, Jeffrey D. Johnson emphasizes that even the most wicked nations exist under God's sovereign control for the benefit of the church. Though the church may seem small and insignificant in the eyes of the world, all nations and powers are ultimately organized by God for the sanctification and good...

How can the church bridge the generational gap and foster unity among its members? Kevin Swanson highlights the necessity of a generational connection within the church, emphasizing the biblical mandate found in Titus 2 where older men and women are instructed to disciple the younger generation. This discipleship has often been neglected, leading to a divide characterized by various cultural expre...