Living Biblically

How should we utilize the opportunities and abilities God has entrusted to us? Conrad Mbewe reminds us that God has granted us both opportunities and abilities, which we are to use for His cause and glory. During challenging times, we must resist the urge to retreat in fear, instead applying our intelligence and wisdom to further God's mission. It's crucial to remain active in our faith, ensuring...

How do the home and church serve as educational institutions in our lives? Alexander Strauch emphasizes the role of both the home and the church as foundational educational institutions. In a world filled with differing philosophies and the constant influx of secular ideas through media, these institutions are crucial for preparing individuals to face persecution and disagreements. The home, in pa...

How should Christian parents lead their families while living as exiles in this world? Brian Borgman emphasizes the vital role of fathers in guiding their families by both example and instruction, reminding them that this world is not our ultimate home. Fathers are called to lead by prioritizing eternal values, showing their families that life is fleeting, and we are merely sojourners here. This p...

What does it mean to call America a Christian nation? Tom Ascol delves into the complex topic of Christian nationalism, likening it to a wax nose that can be shaped to fit various agendas. Ascol questions the notion of America being in a special covenant with God, similar to Israel, and rejects extravagant political claims that suggest America has a divine destiny above other nations. He emphasize...

In times of tension and persecution, should we reconsider having children? Scott Aniol addresses the growing concern among Christians regarding the decision to have children during challenging times. The current climate of increased tension and societal pressures may tempt some to avoid bringing children into the world, aiming to shield them from life's difficulties. However, Aniol emphasizes that...

What does it mean to live in a world that seems increasingly opposed to our beliefs? Robert Bosley addresses the challenge of living faithfully in a culture that seems to be turning away from Christian values. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty in placing us in our current time and environment. This understanding should shape our interactions and thoughts, as we acknowle...

How did a young man stand firm in Babylon? Pooyan Mehrshahi discusses the steadfastness required for young men living in a challenging environment like Babylon. The key to standing one's ground lies in regular prayer and communion with God. By engaging with the Word of God, a young man sharpens his spiritual sword, staying connected with the Lord's people and avoiding isolation, which is a tactic...

Why do we often find ourselves fearing the face of man rather than trusting in God? Paul Carrington explores this question by highlighting the danger of placing our trust in human strength over God. He references Jeremiah 17, which contrasts the cursed man who relies on human wisdom with the blessed man who trusts in the Lord. Carrington warns against the temptation to preserve our reputation or p...

How can we faithfully build and plant our families in Christ? Dr. Joel Beeke emphasizes the importance of bringing the whole counsel of God into our family lives, starting with our relationships. A strong, loving relationship between husband and wife serves as a model for children, illustrating Christ's love for the church. This love should be evident through both words and actions, creating a nur...

How should Christians navigate obedience to governmental authorities? Jeffrey D. Johnson challenges the notion that Christians should follow any state directive unless it explicitly contradicts Scripture. He argues that believers are called to obey the state only within its legitimate sphere of authority. This principle is akin to the jurisdiction we have over our families, where we may offer advi...

How should Christians respond when the state challenges the commands of God? Kevin Swanson addresses the tension between obeying God's commandments and the demands of a totalitarian state. As Christians, we have a responsibility to gather together and not forsake the assembly, despite potential state-imposed restrictions. The judgment of God is a more significant concern than any earthly constrain...

What is the most crucial gift that pastors can offer to their congregations? In his message, Conrad Mbewe emphasizes the importance of making the Bible the primary focus for church members through regular expository preaching. This practice helps to cultivate a biblical culture within the church, contrasting the often negative influences of the surrounding secular culture. By faithfully expounding...

What is the foundation upon which we build our lives as Christians? In his video, Alexander Strauch emphasizes the importance of building on a solid foundation. This foundation is not based on human ideas or philosophies but is grounded in the Lord Jesus Christ, who is God in the flesh, and His chosen apostles and prophets. It is a foundation of truth that is unchanging and eternal. As Christians,...

What does it mean to live between the 'already' and the 'not yet' as a Christian? Brian Borgman explores the unique position of believers as they navigate their spiritual journey. As members of God's family, Christians have already experienced profound transformations such as spiritual resurrection, adoption, and justification. These elements define the 'already' part of their faith, marking them...

How should Christians perceive and embrace the responsibility of raising children in today's world? Tom Ascol emphasizes the importance of returning to the authoritative and sufficient Word of God, especially in the context of family life. He observes that many Christians have been subtly influenced by worldly values rather than being guided by biblical principles. According to Ascol, the church m...

What should exiles and sojourners do in this world? Scott Aniol explores the dual identity of Christians as both exiles and citizens in this world. Drawing from a passage in Jeremiah, he explains how the New Testament portrays believers as exiles and sojourners, with their ultimate citizenship in a heavenly city. This mirrors Israel's experience in Babylon, emphasizing that our true identity is in...

What does it mean to be planted in the house of the Lord? In Psalm 92, the imagery of being planted is vividly presented. Robert Bosley explains that the believer is likened to a palm tree or cedar, deeply rooted and flourishing in good soil. This signifies the Christian's position in God's house, where they find spiritual nourishment essential for growth. The church, with its practices and commun...

How should we, as Christians, respond to anxiety and evil in our lives? Pooyan Mehrshahi reminds us that our stance as Christians, especially in the face of anxiety and evil, must be one of trust. We are urged not to fret, but to place our trust in a sovereign God who possesses all things. This earth, being His footstool, assures us of His ultimate control. As Psalm 37 instructs, we are called not...

How can we make church an exciting and integral part of our family life? Paul Carrington emphasizes that church should not be a mere checklist item for families, but a vibrant and integral part of life. It's important to view church as a place where we get to go, not where we have to go. This mindset shift can be beautifully captured in the idea that it is better to be a doorkeeper in the house of...

How can believers live as exiles before the face of God in a world that is not their home? Dr. Joel Beeke draws a parallel between believers today and the exiles in Jeremiah's time, emphasizing that Christians are sojourners and pilgrims in this world. Just as the exiles were instructed to build, dwell, and plant in Babylon, believers today must seek to live purposefully in every aspect of their l...

How do we navigate earthly authority while remaining faithful to God's commands? Jeffrey D. Johnson emphasizes the importance of recognizing the authority God has given us by creating us in His image. As believers, we are called to protect and care for our families, ensuring their physical and spiritual well-being. This responsibility means we must carefully discern any actions or commands that co...

What are the implications of a declining birth rate within evangelical churches? Kevin Swanson highlights a concerning trend in the evangelical community: a demographic implosion marked by a low birth rate and a decreasing number of young families. Swanson attributes this trend to a broader societal rejection of children, fueled by factors such as abortion and the use of contraceptives. He warns t...

What role do mothers play as gatekeepers in the family? Conrad Mbewe emphasizes the unique and vital role that mothers play in the family. He explains that God has created a distinct difference between male and female, entrusting women with the nurturing characteristics essential for family care. Mothers have the unique ability to nurture both physically and spiritually, supporting the family whil...

How do we navigate a world increasingly hostile to Christian values? In a recent devotional, Alexander Strauch sheds light on the challenging cultural landscape Christians face today. He describes a new kind of secularism that has emerged, one that is markedly different from the passive secularism of past decades. This new secularism is aggressive and confrontational, much like the hostile environ...

Why should Christians emulate the diligence of ants even in a world like Babylon? Brian Borgman emphasizes the importance of diligence as highlighted in the book of Proverbs. He draws a parallel between the industrious nature of ants and the diligence God calls us to exhibit in our lives. The value of hard work is not just an immediate reward but a long-term commitment that God blesses. Laziness,...