Do I Really Deserve to Be Here? – Jeremy Lallier sabbaththoughts.com
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
In this fourth addition, the author poses and then addresses the question, ‘Do I deserve to be here?’ It’s arguably the easiest among the three we’ve explored. No, you don’t deserve to be here. But that’s precisely the point. No one in the Church is flawless; none deserve to be here. Jesus Christ died for us because we couldn’t earn our place. However, when we…
5 Major Differences Between Passover and Easter – Isaac Khalil lifehopeandtruth.com
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
The distinction between Passover and Easter goes beyond the surface understanding that Passover is Jewish and Easter is Christian. Let’s explore five significant differences between these two observances: Difference 1: Passover’s biblical origin vs. Easter’s absence in Scripture. Passover originates from Exodus 12, commemorating the Israelites’ deliverance from Egypt through the blood of the lamb. In contrast, Easter lacks biblical grounding, with no legitimate references…
The Decline and Fall of the American Empire – Steve McCann leadingtolife.org
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
In his essay, Sir John Glubb identifies six stages in the rise and fall of empires, drawing from 3,000 years of historical data. These stages offer a lens through which to understand the trajectory of nations, including the United States. The first stage, the Age of Pioneers, parallels the Revolutionary War and the nation’s founding. Following this, the Age of Conquests symbolizes the Western Expansion…
Doesn’t "Lazarus and the Rich Man" prove that sinners will be tormented forever & ever? thebiblesaysthat.com
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
Many believe the parable of Lazarus and the rich man illustrates heaven and hell. However, it actually emphasizes the promise given to Abraham’s descendants. Abraham, though not having received the promise yet, will inherit it at the resurrection of the just. Lazarus represents Christians who share in this promise through faith. The rich man, depicted as emerging from Hades, faces the future destruction of the…
Is St. Patrick’s Day a Pagan Holiday? – Monica Ebersole and Erik Jones lifehopeandtruth.com
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
On March 17, millions will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with parades, green attire, shamrocks, and festivities. Originating in Ireland, it’s now popular worldwide, particularly in the U.S. Yet, beneath the fun lies syncretism—merging pagan rituals with Christianity. St. Patrick, though venerated as a Catholic saint, used syncretism to blend native Irish customs into his teachings. These included symbolic nods to sun worship and Celtic superstitions….
The Silent Division: Mixing Politics and Faith – Michelle Macedo & Werner Solorzano churchofgodnetwork.org
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
In our religious community, recent shifts have introduced subtle divisions fueled by non-doctrinal factors like politics. As Christians, our identity is rooted in Christ’s teachings, emphasizing love, compassion, and the Kingdom of God. Unfortunately, political ideologies infiltrating our church have led to silent divisions, hindering our shared mission. Drawing inspiration from Alcoholics Anonymous, we should adopt a non-controversial approach, prioritizing the Gospel and avoiding worldly…
You Cannot Serve God and Money – Don Henson lifehopeandtruth.com
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
This text emphasizes the contrasting perspectives on wealth, particularly the allure of material riches versus the spiritual treasure advocated by Jesus and the apostle Paul. It addresses the prevalent desire for financial success, exemplified by lottery participation, and challenges the notion that physical prosperity guarantees true satisfaction and security. Jesus’ teachings, especially the analogy of serving God or mammon, underscore the need for a choice…
The Bible Superstition or Authority? – Herbert W Armstrong hwalibrary.com
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
The world’s best-selling book, the Bible, evokes awe, passive discredit, and misunderstanding. Why does it remain a mystery to many, with diverse interpretations among traditional Christian churches? The crucial question arises: Is the Bible the authoritative Word of the Creator God, or a product of ancient human speculation? In examining this, the author highlights the dichotomy in education—those with university backgrounds often leaning towards evolutionary…
It’s a Dark World – Brian Orchard leadingtolife.org
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
In a world shaped by personal perspectives and influenced by darkness, King David’s insights from Psalm 36 resonate with the current state of affairs. Describing the unconverted mind, he captures the pervasive wickedness that lacks a fear of God. Our era, marked by a moral decline and a post-Christian narrative, reflects this darkness. God’s warning in Deuteronomy 28 about the consequences of disobedience seems prophetic…
The “Good News” Gospel – Richard F. Ames tomorrowsworld.org
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
The essence of the Gospel, or “Good News,” preached by Jesus contrasts sharply with various distorted versions found within mainstream Christianity. The “prosperity gospel” and “political gospel” are misleading, promoting health and wealth or human-centered activism. To discern the true Gospel, one must turn to the New Testament, where the Greek word “euaggelion” translates to “good news.” The genuine Gospel centers on Jesus proclaiming the…
Can the True Church Be Found? – Richard T. Ritenbaugh cgg.org
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
In the midst of the prevailing spiritual confusion and myriad belief systems, the profound words of Jesus in Matthew 16:18 bring solace: “I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.” These turbulent times, akin to the words of Thomas Paine, are soul-trying, and amidst the clamor, seekers face the challenge of discerning the true church. Religious diversity, denominations,…
Who Is The Devil? – Richard F. Ames thebiblesaysthat.com
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
Recognizing and overcoming the power of evil around you is crucial in a world fascinated by the occult. Millions, especially the youth, are drawn to occult-themed entertainment like the Twilight novels and movies. However, understanding who and what the devil is becomes essential for navigating his malevolent influence. The Bible identifies the devil as “the great dragon” and “that serpent of old,” emphasizing his role…
The True Nature of Leadership – Brian Orchard leadingtolife.org
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
The world is experiencing a leadership crisis in various sectors, including politics, education, business, and within the Churches. This analysis focuses on the nature of leadership rather than specific principles. From a worldly perspective, leadership is often tied to power, position, and status, yet possessing a title doesn’t guarantee effective leadership. There’s a growing expectation for leaders to fix issues without demanding personal responsibility. In…
The Power of Cultural Bubbles – Donald Winchester vision.org
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
The universal relevance when considering the pervasive impact of culture on our lives. Culture, an intricately complex concept, molds our thoughts, words, and actions. Our views on politics, religion, and even trivial matters like food preferences are influenced by the cultural environment. Culture operates as a powerful force of exclusion, shaping our perspectives and influencing decisions. The dangers of cultural entrenchment are evident in the…
Permission to Fail – Jeremy Lallier sabbaththoughts.com
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
Striving to emulate God in human form inevitably leads to imperfection, and embracing failure is intrinsic to Christian growth. Just as artists discard thousands of subpar creations to refine their skill, our journey involves countless flawed attempts at embodying spiritual virtues. Each failed effort is a step toward mastery. Rather than avoiding situations requiring spiritual fruit, we confront them despite inadequacies. Failure isn’t isolated but…
How to Study the Bible – Mike Bennett lifehopeandtruth.com
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
In approaching the Bible, a vast and ancient text, new readers often face challenges. To unravel its wisdom, here are key principles for effective Bible study: Pray for Guidance: Seek God’s guidance in your study. The Bible, inspired by God, is a valuable guide for life. Praying for understanding and wisdom establishes a connection with the ultimate Author. Learn and Obey: Approach the Bible humbly,…
China and Russia in Prophecy – Brian Orchard leadingtolife.org
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
China and Russia, two major geopolitical powers, are reshaping the global landscape, challenging the established world order. Amidst tensions with the United States and its allies, both nations are asserting their influence. Recent developments, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, highlight their strategic maneuvers. The Bible’s prophecy suggests a significant role for these nations in future events. Ezekiel’s prophecy associates Magog, Meshech, and Tubal with modern-day…
Are You a Christian? – David C. Grabbe cgg.org
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
The naming of disciples as “Christians” in Antioch marked a significant moment in the early spread of Christianity (Acts 11:26). While Shakespeare’s Juliet argued that names hold little significance compared to a person’s essence, names serve as essential points of reference for communication. In Antioch, the disciples were labeled “Christianos,” meaning “followers of Christ.” This term, though potentially coined in mockery, took root and was…
Replacement Theology: Has the Church Replaced Israel? – David Treybig lifehopeandtruth.com
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
Some argue that all of God’s promises to Abraham have been fulfilled, as all nations have been blessed through Christ (Genesis 12:1-3; Galatians 3:16). Replacement Theology suggests that the Church has supplanted Israel, interpreting biblical prophecies originally directed at Israel as now applying to the Church, making the identity of physical Israelites irrelevant. Yet, the answer to whether the Church replaces Israel is nuanced. Yes,…
Have the Ancient Gods Returned? – Darris McNeely ucg.org
Ryan Welsh
3 months ago in Trinity
Recent events, such as pagan occultism on display at major ceremonies and the alarming societal changes highlighted by social observers like Naomi Wolf, reflect the absence of God. Notably, events like the Grammy Awards and the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony showcase overt displays of satanic imagery, signaling a disturbing trend. Jonathan Cahn’s book, “The Return of the Gods,” suggests that ancient deities like Baal and…