Let the Bible Speak UP

Animating Christianity

Christians ought to act like we have been sanctified and house the Spirit of the living God, because do have been and do. Yet, many Christians play possum as if they are dead. This is a betrayal of God’s transformative power and a means of grieving God’s Holy Spirit. Real Christians should put aside sin and embrace the fruits of the Spirit.

Let No One Pass Judgment

Believe it or not, there is a biblical provision for Christians judging one another, but only in matters of established sin. When it comes to our opinion, well, that they remain. In all things, we ought to “hold fast to the head”, being Jesus Christ, not being led astray into debates over senseless or insignificant matters.

Made Alive in Christ

In John 17:3, Jesus prays, “This is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.” While this world may offer us a modicum of life, true life is only possible through living in God’s presence and according to God’s plan.

The Fullness of God

The book of Colossians tells us that the fullness of God dwells in bodily form through the person of Jesus Christ. This means that Jesus is the perfect emulation and reflection of God’s character. It’s through his life, death, and resurrection then that we see who God truly is. Many have claimed God is unknowable, but this is untrue after the days Jesus of Nazareth walked the earth.

The Mystery of the Gospel

Paul saw it his mission to “make the word of God fully known.” This word is referred to as a “mystery hidden for the ages,” but it is hidden no longer. The simple message of Jesus on the cross is a public declaration of God’s broader plan to redeem the created world. That is good news for you and me!

Reconciled in His Body

Aliens are real! No, not that kind—not that kind either. When people sin, they are alienated from God. What Christ shows us, however, is that unification between God and the flesh is possible! As early as the Council of Nicaea, Christians were debating whether or to what extend Jesus was human. As it turns out, Jesus’ humanity is not only real but critical to New Testament theology!

The Firstborn of All Creation

The Ancient Greeks believed that divinity would not dare be muddied by donning human flesh, which they believed to be innately impure. This perspective runs in the face of one of the most important moments in Christian history, the Incarnation. Paul writes to the church in Colossae, wrestling with serious questions about God.

We Heard of Your Faith

In this second week through the book of Colossians, we are all forced to reflect. Are you “bearing fruit” and bearing the name of Christ in such a way that your reputation honors Christ within your community? The Colossians were well known for their love and faith, but they were the exception not the norm. What about you?

Grace & Peace

In this introduction to the book of Colossians, Brian explores the cultural and historical background. That ancient world was inundated with idolatry and immorality, yet Christians acted as lights into the darkness.

The Origins of the Bible (Part IV)

In the final installment to our Bible origins series, we discuss the last and arguably most impactful step of the transmission process, interpretation. There are many poor methods of interpretation, but Christians, being called to worship God with our minds also, should apply a critical process to this endeavor, presented right here on LTBS.