Paul is a Jew, yet he was called to be a missionary to the Gentiles. But clearly, he always had a heart for his own people. More than a personal testimony, this chapter and the following chapter serve to show how God’s redemption plan was revealed gradually throughout human history, starting with the Jews and […]
relationship
Romans 8:28 – The Conditional Part of God’s Unconditional Love (Part 4 of 4)
We know this to be the case if we think of a relationship between a parent and their child. I love my kids unconditionally. They could become criminals and land themselves in jail, but as their father, I would love them unconditionally. But how much or how little I have input into their lives is […]
Romans 8:28 – The Conditional Part of God’s Unconditional Love (Part 3 of 4)
Many things in Scripture are not clearly laid out and this mystery makes us feel uncomfortable. Sadly, entire denominations are formed around a group of people who stand on one side or another based on their convictions over one or more of these controversial issues. But we have to be careful — certain things are […]
Romans 8:28 – The Conditional Part of God’s Unconditional Love (Part 1 of 4)
28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. 29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. 30 […]
Mark 4: Why does Jesus speak in parables? (Part 2 of 3)
Jesus speaks in parables because he is veiling himself and giving us a chance to respond without coercion, but rather in voluntary love and surrender. But there is another reason why Jesus speaks in parables. Here is an excerpt from Mark 4 — 9Then Jesus said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” […]