James 3:1–12 (NKJV) James follows up his discussion of faith v. works, or faith plus works, with a discussion of the power of the tongue. Words have a definite effect on the world around you. Your words can bring life or death, and James seeks to warn the Christians reading his letter about the need … Continue reading The Untamable Tongue
Faith Without Works is Dead
James 2:14–26 (NKJV) James continues the discussion of being doers and not just hearers of the Word with a discussion about faith without works. The premise is that both are essential in the life of the believer. Having faith will produce works, or it is not faith at all. 14 What does it profit, my brethren, … Continue reading Faith Without Works is Dead
No Partiality
James 2:1–13 (NKJV) In this passage, James moves from a discussion of temptation and the need to live righteously with compassion to a further discussion of human relations. He instructs the readers to treat people from all walks of life the same, and suggests that love and mercy are the hallmarks of the Christian attitude … Continue reading No Partiality
Doers of the Word
James 1:21–27 (NKJV) After instructing the readers to be aware of the seduction and danger of temptation, and after instructing them on how to receive good from God and deliver good to others, James moves into an instruction to shun sin and to do the word, not just hear it or know it. 21 Therefore lay … Continue reading Doers of the Word
Endure Temptation
James 1:12–20 (NKJV) In this passage of Scripture, James warns against temptation. He explains how temptation leads to sin, and the effects of that sin. He extols the greatness of God's gifts to mankind, and instructs believers to be measured and patient in their responses to others. 12 Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for … Continue reading Endure Temptation
Count it All Joy
James 1:1–11 (NKJV) The apostle James, leader of the Jerusalem Christian church, writes a letter to all the Jewish Christians everywhere. One of his primary points was the concept of faith and works being equally important to one's relationship with the Lord. 1 James, a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ,To the … Continue reading Count it All Joy
Be Complete
Hebrews 13:18–25 (NKJV) While we have been presenting under the assumption that the writer of Hebrews is a mystery, the opening words of this last section again sounds a great deal like the greetings and encouragements of Paul the Apostle. 18 Pray for us; for we are confident that we have a good conscience, in all … Continue reading Be Complete
Remember Your Rulers
Hebrews 13:7–17 (NKJV) The writer of Hebrews continues his last instructions here in this passage. He addresses how we treat rulers, the eternity of Jesus, and the need for sound doctrine. He also talks about the altar from which the Levites cannot eat and the city in which we worship God and dwell spiritually, as … Continue reading Remember Your Rulers
Lift Up Your Head
Psalm 24 (NKJV) February 14, 2021 1 The earth is the Lord’s, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein.2 For He has founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the waters.3 Who may ascend into the hill of the Lord? Or who may stand in His holy place?4 He … Continue reading Lift Up Your Head
Live Contentedly
Hebrews 13:1–6 (NKJV) The writer of Hebrews begins chapter thirteen with some final instructions regarding the conduct of believers. As with most Pauline letters, the author takes the opportunity to give several thoughts relating to how Christians should behave as lights in a dark world. 1 Let brotherly love continue. 2 Do not forget to entertain … Continue reading Live Contentedly
Devoted To You 