An Abundance of Grace

Romans 14:5 “Let each man be fully convinced in his own mind.” Observation: In Romans 14, Paul focused on the importance of not judging one another in areas of permissible freedom, but to encourage one another in the faith. He said that heaven is far greater than a...

The Other Side of Pain

Romans 5:3-5 “We also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the...

Bound to the Pier

Romans 1:1 “Paul, a bond-servant of Jesus Christ…” Observation: In the first verse of Romans, Paul called himself a bond-servant of Jesus. The whole sentence continues for seven full verses, during which Paul managed to recount a defense of the Gospel from the Old...

Silly Question

2 Thessalonians 1:4 “Therefore, we ourselves speak proudly of you.” Observation: In Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonian church, he addressed the reality of persecution and suffering. He expressed thanksgiving because their faith was being enlarged through it and...

It Always Gets Personal

Matthew 25:33 “He will put the sheep on His right, and the goats on the left.” Observation: Jesus was telling us why some are blessed. They had fed the hungry, invited strangers in, clothed the naked, visited prisoners…all generous things that were viewed by Christ as...

Grading on a Curve

Matthew 20:8 “’Call the laborers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last group to the first.’” Observation: The workday was at an end, and it was time for the vineyard foreman to settle up. The owner had hired men at intervals throughout the day, promising...