The fifth litmus test–a Christian is someone who is concerned about God’s name and His kingdom. Verse 9. We start with acknowledging who we are talking to. Our Father in heaven. He is the Creator, we are the creature. We start by acknowledging the immense gap between us and God. God is not our buddy. […]
Matthew
Matthew 6 – The Lord’s Prayer (pt2 of 4)
Christianity is not a show, it’s not a performance lived out before men. If the way of the Pharisee is pompous, trumpet sounding ostentation, then what is the way of a Christian? It’s the way of secrecy. This is the second litmus test. A Christian knows how to cultivate a secret faith before God. 3 […]
Matthew 6 – The Lord’s Prayer (pt1 of 4)
Today, we are going to cover the Lord’s Prayer. Read Matt 6:9-15. This chapter is packed. If you’ve been to church for a while, chances are, you’ve probably listened to sermons about the Lord’s Prayer, or storing up treasures in heaven, or seeking God’s kingdom and righteousness first. But what you may or may not […]
Matthew 5:17-48: Having Love for Your Enemies is the Litmus Test (pt4 of 4)
Examine your life. Have you taken the Law and changed it to suit your preferences? Take for example, this command to love your neighbors as yourself, which includes your enemies. There are some who have no enemies, which is hard to believe, but if you stay away from everyone and do your own thing, I […]
Matthew 5:17-48: Having Love for Your Enemies is the Litmus Test (pt3 of 4)
This is the difference between justification and sanctification. The moment you accept Christ, the grace of God comes into your life and you are justified, legally pronounced righteous before God in Christ. But, as you grow in grace, you are sanctified, changed as you abide with Christ. And over time, you become more “righteous.” It’s […]
Matthew 5:17-48: Having Love for Your Enemies is the Litmus Test (pt2 of 4)
Starting in v21-22, we have the first of six statements. Statement #1: v21-22 21 “YOU HAVE HEARD [meaning, here is the wrong interpretation] that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ 22 BUT I TELL YOU [here’s the correct interpretation] that anyone […]