Author Archives: ThePreachersWord

November 13, 2018 · 6:45 am

5 Lessons Learned From Jesus’ Prayer

J. Gordon Melton is an American author, theologian, and the founding director of the Institute for the Study of American Religion. Currently, he’s the Distinguished Professor of American Religious History with the Institute for Studies of Religion at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, where he resides.

The author of more than 45 books, Melton is known for his encyclopedic knowledge of world religions, religious traditions in America, and his research into cults and extremely unusual religious groups. “It’s my little niche,” Melton said.

“In 1900 there were 330 different religious groups,” Melton observed. “Now, there are over 2,000, and I find every one of them incredibly interesting.” Here are a few of the more unusual. Continue reading →

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November 12, 2018 · 6:41 am

Word of the Week: Soldier

Yesterday was Veterans Day in the United States. But it is celebrated as a holiday today.

Known in other countries as Armistice Day or Remembrance Day, it celebrates the conclusion of major hostilities of World War I on the 11th hour, of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918.

In honor of our military, all non-essential federal offices will be closed. No mail is delivered. And federal workers receive a paid holiday. Many towns have parades or other events honoring veterans. Some businesses offer discounts to those who served in the military.

While we appreciate and honor those who have severed our country and some have paid the ultimate price to maintain our freedom, consider a different kind of soldier. Continue reading →

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November 9, 2018 · 5:57 am

Are We Saved By Faith Only?

“Faith in Christ is all that is needed for salvation,” wrote one of our readers in response to a recent post.

The doctrine of “faith only” is not a new theological idea. Issues surrounding faith and works have been debated for centuries.  And various religious groups give differing answers to the question, “What must I do to be saved?”

It is important, however,  for us to ask, “What does the Bible say?” Continue reading →

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November 8, 2018 · 6:21 am

Finding Joy In All Circumstances

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I have seen the above snow scene with its accompanying advice posted on facebook several times lately. And most recently by my preaching colleague, John Maddocks, in Toronto, Canada. I suspect John will have many opportunities for joy this winter.

While this thought may elicit a chuckle, it speaks to a universal truth and a Biblical principle. Accept the inevitable. Learn to be content. And find joy in all circumstances.

The apostle Paul expressed it this way. Continue reading →

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November 7, 2018 · 6:34 am

Great Verses of the Bible : John 12:48


Bruce Ball tells an old story that took place in a western town in the late 1800’s. A horse was spooked and then bolted, running away uncontrollably with a small boy in the bed of the wagon. Seeing the child was in grave danger, a young man risked his life to catch the horse and stop the wagon, thus saving the boy’s life. Continue reading →

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November 6, 2018 · 7:21 am

From Weakness Comes Power

Sunday morning Norma Jean and I worshiped with the Henderson Boulevard brethren and I spoke at their 11:00 AM service. While I came to share a gospel message, I left feeling, as I often do, that I received more than I gave.

Henderson is a warm, caring and loving church. It’s led by men who really understand servant-leadership. And it is obvious there’s a close-knit fellowship among their spiritual family. One of their Shepherds, Ron Drumm, who served as their full-time preacher for over 20 years, spoke at the 9:00 AM communion service. Continue reading →

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November 5, 2018 · 5:49 am

Word of the Week: Nice

The other day we were driving through downtown Atlanta on the way to Florida and saw for the first time the eye-catching Corey Tower.

Corey Tower is a massive, 300-foot tall structure located where 1-20, I-75 and I-85 converge. It claims to be viewed by over 1 million people each day and is “labeled as one of Atlanta’s most powerful branding icons.” Its centerpiece is a 2000 square foot digital display with messaging and graphics 24 hours a day.

As we drove through the city we were struck by its simple, but profound three-word message: Continue reading →

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October 31, 2018 · 7:11 am

Great Verses of the Bible: John 8:32

 

There is an expression being used today by many celebrities and those in some spiritual communities that  describe their philosophical, religious or personal beliefs. “My truth.”

“My truth” speaks to one’s own experiences. It is subjective. And is often used to justify almost any kind of belief or religious practice, no matter how bizarre.

When “my truthers” are challenged they respond, “Well, that’s your truth. But it’s not my truth.” Continue reading →

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October 30, 2018 · 7:55 am

How To Treat a Loved One Who’s a Homosexual

In a recently published post, “The Love God Hates,” I pointed out that we should not love that which God hates.

In numerous passages the Bible speaks of hating wickedness, unrighteousness and ungodliness. (Ps 45:7: Prov 6:17-19). As the people of God we are commanded to be holy and not to love worldliness (1 Jn 2:15-17), but to “hate evil (and) do good.”

In the post I related the story of man who’s daughter admitted she was a lesbian. While he initially expressed his disapproval, eventually he joyfully embraced his daughter’s choice and apparently is going to host the wedding.

A reader responded and asked my advice on how to handle the situation. Here are 7 things I would suggest. Continue reading →

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October 29, 2018 · 7:28 am

Word of the Week: Civility

During the past month on the road, we have not been watching very much TV, especially here in the Smoky Mountains. Except for a bit of morning news and an occasional Hallmark movie at night Norma Jean and I have preferred the beauty and serenity of our surroundings.

However, we have seen enough to long for the mid-term elections to be over. The political ads and the rhetoric is heated and vitriolic on both sides. Now in the aftermath of the terrible mass shooting at the Philadelphia synagogue, there are renewed calls for civility among our political leaders. Continue reading →

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