Paul Long who served in the former Belgian Congo tells of a native preacher named Mutombo Elijah. He was the “Billy Graham” of that area. But Mutombo was diagnosed with leprosy and had to move to the lepers’ camp. His dear wife and children went with him, trusting the Lord to protect and care for […]
When life takes a difficult turn, we all have quoted Isa 55:9 to ourselves and others, “Well, his ways are not our ways.” It is true that God orchestrates events in ways that surprise and puzzle us. But in reading the book by Dane Ortland, Gentle and Lowly, I was surprised to learn using this verse that […]
Hesed. That’s a Hebrew word I’ve mentioned before in my preaching – one I just love. You come across it numerous times in your OT. It is one of the most beautiful Hebrew words in your Bible. Hesed is God’s covenantal love, his kindness and mercy. And it’s overflowing. Various translations treat it differently: ESV steadfast love; KJV and NASB […]
I have talked to folks over the course of ministry who believe it is always God’s will to heal. If you are sick and can’t be healed, its because you lack faith. If you turn on religious television, it is often preached that God wants to make you wealthy – to bless you with material riches. […]
“We believe God created male and female genders and established marriage as a life-long covenant relationship between one man and one woman. Further we believe God ordained marriage as the only proper context for sexual expression.” HBC Doctrinal Statement. That paragraph is seen as discriminatory by the House of Representatives. They passed the Equality Act Thursday, now […]
On May 19, 2019, the evangelical world mourned the death of Ravi Zacharias, beloved Christian apologist, who died of cancer at the age of 74. On February 11 of this year, the evangelical world mourned again – this time over the results of an external investigation hired by his former ministry detailing proof of a secret […]
The question, “What does love mean?” was posed to a group of 4-8 year olds. Here are some of their answers: Rebecca, age 8. “When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn’t bend over and paint her toenails. My grandfather does it for her now.” Billy, age 4. “When someone loves you, the way they say your […]
We all know what its like not to be heard. We’re with a group of friends – everyone is talking but you say something, and no one seems to have heard you. Ps 28 David is yearning for God to listen, be not deaf to me, v. 1. David wants Yahweh to hear him. If you are […]
Today after the service we will conduct our annual business meeting. We’ve asked before – “what is essential for our church to be a Bible-based, gospel-driven church?” First, we must be God-centered in our worship. We do not believe we gather each Sunday to be entertained, but to participate in singing, prayer, giving and practicing […]
On March 10, 1904, Harry Houdini was challenged by a London newspaper to escape from the new complex set of handcuffs. Thousands gathered to watch. Houdini ducked into a box to struggle out of sight. After 20 minutes he appeared. The crowd roared with approval but realized he was still bound. He smiled and ducked back again. Fifteen minutes later […]