Why Creeds?
Creeds are important to the Church. A creed instructs us the truths contained In the Bible. They are written by man and are accurate in as much they teach truth contained in the Scriptures. Even the Bible teaches of doctrines of the faith handed down to the saints (Jude 3). Paul instructs the Thessalonians that they are to "stand firm and hold to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by our spoken word or by our letter
The Threshing Floor
Ruth 3:1-18 I. Plan for Redemption (1-5) We continue our study through the book of Ruth. We turn to chapter three, which follows a similar structure to the second chapter. It begins with a conversation between Naomi and Ruth, then moves to the fields where greetings and conversations occur between Boaz and Ruth, then finally returns to Ruth coming home and updating Naomi. The book of Ruth is short yet sweet. It is a literary masterpiece of writing. This week we come
Seeking Shelter, Finding Fruit
Ruth 2:1-23- Seeking Shelter, Finding Fruit Chapter one of Ruth sets the scene for the rest of the book. Naomi and Ruth are now in the land of Judah. Being back in Judah is one significant hurdle to cross. When Sarah and I were engaged, we needed to go through the process of getting a visa for me to come to America. A lot of paperwork and documents, waiting, an expensive medical exam, and an interview at the American embassy. We
Pain and Providence
Ruth 1:19-22- Pain and Providence Last week we looked at this passage briefly, as we saw it in the narrative. This week I would like to study this passage more deeply, within the narrative but theologically. This passage has rich meaning and can teach us a lot about ourselves and the Providence of God. Particularly the providence of God in times of suffering. We began looking at the dark and depressing time that the book was written in and Naomi, who
The Prodigal Daughters
Ruth 1:6-22- The Prodigal Daughters When telling a story, you can often tell what is important to the writer based on the amount of time that is given to a particular aspect of the story. This is true in Ruth; the first five verses of the book explain a vast amount of time (over ten years) in very few words. There is no dialogue, no explanation, no details about Mahlon and Chilion's wedding. However, we come to a brief moment in
Pray for the nation
1 Timothy 2:1–6 (ESV) First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and there is one mediator