Category: Biblical Reflections

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hebrews 12:18–29 (NKJV) In the latter part of this chapter which speaks about faith, the writer compares Mt. Sinai to Mt. Zion. He speaks of Mt. Sinai in ominous terms, and about Mt. Zion in terms of grace and peace. This comparison further demonstrates the difference between the covenant of law and the covenant of … Continue reading A Kingdom Which Cannot Be Shaken

Hebrews 12:12–17 (NKJV) After discussing the value of Godly discipline in the previous passage, the author moves to a discussion of dealing with the effects of trouble and/or chastening. He further elaborates on the peaceful fruit of righteousness lifted up in the previous discussion of discipline as well. 12 Therefore strengthen the hands which hang down, … Continue reading Strength Through Peace

Hebrews 12:3–11 (NKJV) This passage explores the value of discipline or, to use the more archaic word, chastening. The image of corporal punishment comes to mind here, which is not necessarily in vogue in today's vernacular. However, the principle is still clear: discipline from a father or mother exacted on a child provides a needed … Continue reading The Value of Discipline

Hebrews 11:30–12:2 (NKJV) After the prior discussion of the faith of Moses, the writer moves into a summary of the faith stories of many of the Israelite leaders over the next several years of their existence. He speaks of Joshua and several of the judges of Israel, chronicling their faith in God against all odds. … Continue reading A Great Cloud of Witnesses