“And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17) Summer is a great time to enjoy our children and grandchildren. I remember when my son was growing up. He loved playing baseball more than he loved to eat. As his parent, I thought he was one of the finest baseball players for his age that I’ve ever seen. But then again, no parent can be objective when it comes to talking about his own child. You […]

“Return, you backsliding children, and I will heal your backslidings.” (Jeremiah 3:22) If you attend church on a regular basis, then you’ve heard your pastor or Sunday School teacher mention backsliding. But what does it mean? Moreover, what are the common symptoms associated with backsliding? There are some who would tell you that backsliding means to go back to your old ways. I don’t agree. Someone who goes back to his old ways is what I call a “Counterfeit Christian.” In other words, his salvation may not have […]

“I have waited for your salvation, O Lord.” (Genesis 49:18) We receive emails all the time from readers seeking answers to spiritual dilemmas that life brings their way. Without a doubt, the most frequently asked question concerns the assuredness of salvation. Just last week for example, a reader wrote: “I love Jesus with everything in me. I have committed my life to him and truly believe. I just have a big problem really believing how Jesus could forgive me for messing up a lot; also accepting true assurance. […]

“And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.” (John 20:30-31) When I first came to know Jesus, confusion set in about what had just happened to me. I sought the counsel of my pastor, a Presbyterian minister, who suggested I begin my newfound life with Bible study. “Start with […]