Ecclesiastes 5:1–20 Foundations Commentary Big Idea Ecclesiastes 5 reminds us that true joy is not found in talking more, possessing more, or controlling more. It is found in reverently walking with God, trusting His provision, and enjoying His gifts. Introduction: The Sound of Silence When was the last time you experienced complete silence? No phone... Continue Reading →
How to Use This Commentary Matthew 6:1–4 marks a major shift in Jesus’ teaching. After showing how kingdom people relate to others in Matthew 5, Jesus now teaches how we relate to the Father. Read it in two movements: (1) the danger of practicing righteousness for people, and (2) the call to practice righteousness for... Continue Reading →
How to Use This Commentary Matthew now introduces the King’s forerunner. Read this passage in two movements: (1) John’s call to repentance (vv.1–6), and (2) John’s warning and announcement (vv.7–12). Key: The King is coming—so prepare your heart, not just your appearance. If a king were coming to your city, what would you do? You... Continue Reading →
How to Use This Commentary Matthew now shows how people respond to Jesus’ kingship. Read this passage in three movements: (1) the search for the King (vv.1–2), (2) the responses to the King (vv.3–8), and (3) the worship of the King (vv.9–12). Key: Jesus draws three responses—hostility, indifference, or worship. Every person chooses one. How... Continue Reading →
Again, thank you for taking the time to explore this topic of tithing, generosity, and biblical stewardship with me. As I reflect on this study and what I have discovered in Scripture and church history, I must admit that I am still somewhat surprised. The relationship between the Old Testament tithe and the giving of... Continue Reading →
Should Christians Tithe Today? Series Investing in Eternity: The Goal of Christian Stewardship After exploring the Old Testament tithe, the words of Jesus, the teaching of the apostles, and the development of church history, we now come to the bigger issue behind all of it: what is the goal of Christian stewardship? This final article... Continue Reading →
Quick Summary 1 Kings 21 tells the story of Naboth’s vineyard—a story about money, power, and integrity. King Ahab wanted Naboth’s land, but Naboth refused because it was part of his covenant inheritance from the Lord. Through deception and corruption, Ahab and Jezebel took the vineyard and Naboth lost his life. The story reminds us... Continue Reading →
Home › Easter: Fact, Fiction, Faith › Honoring Christ at Easter Honoring Christ at Easter Easter: Fact, Fiction, Faith — Final Reflections Bottom Line: Easter is not commanded in Scripture, but neither is it forbidden. The resurrection is non-negotiable; the calendar is not. Christians can honor Christ either by celebrating Easter or by abstaining—so long... Continue Reading →
A Closer Look at The Scriptures (ISR) Explanatory Notes — Gad Why This Entry Matters Few claims unsettle believers more quickly than those involving the name used for God. When questions are raised about whether familiar biblical language is rooted in paganism, the impact can be immediate and deeply personal. In recent years, references to... Continue Reading →
Paul addresses spiritual gifts, emphasizing their origin in the Holy Spirit and their purpose for the church's unity and edification.