Acts 9 is not a passage that was included in Luke’s writings to teach us about baptism. It is there to tell us about the profound conversion experience and calling of Saul (Paul) and it includes his baptism. Paul is met by Jesus on the road to Damascus and is forever changed. Paul meets Jesus and is told what to do by Ananias and all that happens; his persecution of followers of the Way, the bright light, the voice of Jesus, the blindness, the fasting, his new calling, and his baptism are all included in his testimony. Continue reading “Next Step || Baptism & Calling”
Habits – Part 4: Engage Those Far from God
If you are part of a club or an organization that only allowed people to join by invitation you would probably be extremely excited to accept their offer to become a member. You made it in! Conversely, after you have accepted their invitation, you might be a little upset if they decided to allow more and more people to join the ranks.
When you were on the outside you may have wished that more people would be allowed on the inside. Unfortunately, what happens often is that when you finally get on the inside you will be tempted to keep outsiders on the outside. You grow increasingly more concerned with how the club serves you than inviting more people into your club. Ironically, club growth may actually be part of the club’s mission.
Continue reading “Habits – Part 4: Engage Those Far from God”
Share Good Stories – A Better Way to Inspire (Repost)
This article was written for Scott McKnight’s blog “Jesus Creed.”
“If we don’t have good stories then what are we doing here?”
Continue reading “Share Good Stories – A Better Way to Inspire (Repost)”
Resurrection Stories – Part 3
I should have been there. At the cross. At his grave. In the room with the rest of the disciples. You’ve got to understand – my world had just turned upside down. Continue reading “Resurrection Stories – Part 3”
Resurrection Stories – Part 2
I used to dream of greatness. I believed that I would one day sit at Jesus’ right hand when he came into his kingdom. I was so naïve and foolish. I thought that was what he preached. Now, nothing made sense. Continue reading “Resurrection Stories – Part 2”
Resurrection Stories – Part 1
It was still so dark that morning that we could barely make our way to the entrance where they had laid my Lord to rest. We feared that they did not give him a proper burial. How could we let him lie without preparing his body? He deserved better. Continue reading “Resurrection Stories – Part 1”