Of all the names, titles and designations that describe and honor Jesus probably none is more unique than the one ascribed by John.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1).
Word. Jesus is the Word. How do we know? The context tells us.
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14) Continue reading
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Francis Derek claims there are 272 different names, titles and designations for Jesus in the Bible. I’m not sure I would be that specific! But there are at least over 200. They’re names of Christ in prophesy. Names that have to do with types and symbols. And there are unique names in the New Testament.
Throughout this year we want to consider some of the those names and see the importance of His name. He is Wonderful. He is our Advocate. He is called Christ. But what did Jesus call himself? Continue reading
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“When life changes to be harder, change yourself to be stronger. Our challenges are what mold us, refine us, and make us into all we were intended to become.” (Zig Ziglar)
Life does change. Challenges do come. And how quickly they can occur! Indeed the classic old hymn is right, “Time is filled with swift transition.”
We’ve all experienced it. That heart-rending phone call with a sobbing voice on the other end with tragic news. The results of a test and the Doctor’s unfavorable prognosis. The husband announces that he’s leaving to the shock of his wife and children. A close associate who betrays your trust. A once devoted friend who cowardly leaves when you need him the most. Continue reading
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It was 800 miles from the North African city of Cyrene in Lybia to Jerusalem.The journey was long and arduous. But the time, effort and expense would be worth it. No doubt this dark-skinned man, a Hellenistic Jew, named Simon, was eagerly anticipating the feast days. The Passover. The fellowship. The communion with other worshipers. An opportunity to honor the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
We don’t know if it was his first trip. Or his last. Or maybe he settled there. But we can know this. He never forgot it. And neither did his sons, Rufus and Alexander. Continue reading
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A man was on trial for a crime and couldn’t afford an attorney, so a public defender was provided for him. As the proceedings began the Judge saw he was nervous and worried.
The Judge explained to him that in his court he would receive a fair trial. Everything would be conducted according to the law. And that he had a reputation for being a good judge. The judge asked if the accused had any questions. Continue reading
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David Beckley, who spoke on Wednesday’s Florida College Lecture program, wrote in the lecture book, “Africa is known as the “Dark Continent,” and for a very good reason.” David ought to know he’s spent the past twelve years preaching in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.
“The ignorance and fear of the spirits, nyanga (witch doctor) curses, ancestor worship, multiple wives and muti killings (killing for body parts to give supposed special powers) are just a few characteristics of the darkness that exists there,” writes David. Continue reading
“As the centuries pass, the evidence is accumulating that, measured by His effect on history, Jesus is the most influential life ever lived on this planet.” — Historian Kenneth Scott Latourette
Jesus.
That name touches the lives and hearts of people. Some are made mad. Others glad. Some people become angry and vindictive. While others are humbled and grateful. Some are filled with resentment. Yet still others experience comfort, delight and pleasure. Continue reading
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“What’s in a name? A rose by any other name would smell as sweet”.
This familiar quote is from Shakespeare’s famous play Romeo and Juliet. The reference is to Romeo’s family where Juliet is arguing that it doesn’t matter that he is from the rival house of Montague. Regardless of his name, she loves him.
This line is often quoted out of context to imply “there is nothing in a name.” This is often used in religious discussions, to suggest one name is just as good as another name. Of course, if you’re going to quote Shakespeare, remember the Bard of Avon also said this about a good name in his play Othello Continue reading
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Names are important to God. In the Bible one’s name often reflected some characteristic of the person or event at their birth.
For instance, Isaac’s name means “laughing.” Jacob means “deceiver.” Moses, “drawn out.”
Names may reflect some aspect of one’s life or character such as “Simon the Zealot,” “John the Baptist, or “Herod the Great.” Continue reading
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Paul Gerhardt, the 17th century German preacher, was also a great composer of hymns, During the “Thirty Year War” that ravaged central Europe, Gerhardt and his family were forced to flee from their home.
One night as they huddled in a small village inn, homeless and afraid, his wife broke down and cried openly in despair. To comfort her, Gerhardt reminded her of God’s promises of provision and protection. Then, going out to the garden to be alone, he too broke down and wept. He had come to his darkest hour. Soon afterward, however, Gerhardt felt the burden lifted and sensed anew the Lord’s presence. Taking his pen, he wrote this hymn: Continue reading
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