Blog - Page 11 of 95 - Wednesday in the Word

Is Spiritual Formation shooting at the right target?

Oct 9, 2023

The theology of Spiritual Formation sounds great on paper, but it is focused on the wrong target. Progress toward greater spirituality is measured by what can be seen (for example, how well I maintain the routines of sabbath, bible reading, confession; how loving my actions are toward others; how much I experience greater joy and contentment; how well I serve and sacrifice, etc.) which means success is measured by outward righteous behavior. But is outward righteous behavior the right target?

Galatians 3:23-29 Graduation from the Law

Oct 4, 2023

The Law teaches valuable lessons that prepare us for faith and keep us from evil. But, after the Messiah came, we graduated from the protective custody of the Law. All of us receive justification by the same path: faith in Jesus Christ.

self-control, egkrateia, G1466

Oct 3, 2023

Tools and resources you need to do a word study on the Greek word for self-control, egkrateia, G1466.

Does Spiritual Formation work? Answers from Haggai

Oct 2, 2023

“Spiritual formation” is a hot topic today. But does it work? The Old Testament prophet Haggai would answer no.

September 2023 Reflections

Sep 29, 2023

A national survey revealed that 42% of pastors considered quitting recently and many already have. There’s no question in my mind that we ask too much of pastors today, but I also think pastors share a bit of the blame. Here’s my solution to the “Great Pastor Resignation.”

Galatians 3:15-22 The Deal and the Promise

Sep 27, 2023

Paul argues the Law, which was a deal, does not nullify the promise given to Abraham. In a deal, two parties agree to certain obligations. But a promise is made by one party unconditionally.

gentleness, prautés, G4240

Sep 26, 2023

Tools and resources you need to do a word study on the biblical Greek word for gentleness, prautés, G4240.

Women’s Retreat Survival Kit

Sep 25, 2023

A conference I attended gave each participant this simple and heartwarming “Conference Survival kit” which contained the following items and Scripture.

Galatians 3:1-14 The Way to God

Sep 20, 2023

In Galatians 3, Paul begins a series of five arguments for justification by faith. In the first two, Paul argues from experience and from the plain teaching of Scripture.

goodness, agathósuné, G19

Sep 19, 2023

Tools and resources you need to do a word study on the Greek word for goodness, agathósuné, G19.

Small Group Dynamics: The Rule of “In”

Sep 18, 2023

In new groups, participants often seek connections through icebreaker questions. How we respond impacts the future community. I’ve learned to employ what I call the “Rule of In”.

My solution to the Great Pastor Resignation

Sep 15, 2023

A national survey revealed that 42% of pastors considered quitting and many already have. Here’s how one church avoided that problem.