Did you know that the practice of New Year’s resolutions had its origin in religion? Ancient Babylonians and Romans made promises to their gods. This was also part of Judaism’s autumn festivals and the Christian observance of Lent. Many of us are determined to take action to improve our physical condition. In my own case, I stayed fit … Read More
Another Side Of Jesus
Perhaps you watched the two part series on Fox about Robert O’Neill, the man who killed Osama Bin Laden. It was a moving story of one of our top soldiers risking his life for the sake of the country he loved. Here’s the question: Was O’Neill an agent of God’s justice? I believe Paul answered this question in his … Read More
A Gift To Parents
One of the greatest blessings that comes into our life happens when our children grow up and walk in God’s will. This should not surprise us. Solomon wrote about this wonderful gift to parents centuries ago in the book of Proverbs. On one occasion he wrote—“The father of a righteous son will rejoice greatly, and one who fathers a … Read More
The Wonder of Christ’s Birth
Most Christians understand that the exact date of Jesus’ birth is unknown. In his book about Jesus, Bill O’Reilly speculates that Jesus was probably born sometime during the spring season. However, the Bible itself plus Jewish history gives us enough clues that Bill is wrong. Allow me to share a little Bible history that might be new to you. Here … Read More
When You Discover You Were Misled
There was a recent article on the Internet about the extreme immoral behavior of Joseph Smith, the Founder of the Mormon Church. I was surprised to discover that the source of the information was the Mormon Church itself! Predictably, many Mormons reacted with anger. Some were defensive and in denial. I couldn’t help but reflect on my own religious … Read More
What is the Most Common Sin?
Have you noticed how as a nation we have departed from the purpose of our Thanksgiving holiday—to say thanks! Thanksgiving day comes at the end of the year. As we reflect back, it provides us with a wonderful opportunity to focus on God’s goodness. In my Life Essentials Study Bible, I share a Bible principle from the life of David: … Read More
Gizmos and Gadgets: A Blessing or a Curse?
Is modern technology in general a blessing or a curse? As the youngest (at that time) professor at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, I taught the first class ever in the use of electronic media to support Bible teaching. And today, God has blessed my organization, the Center for Church Renewal, with a radio and television production studio that contains … Read More
Will Man Ever Conquer Space Travel?
The recent crash of Virgin Galactic “SpaceShipTwo” which lead to the death of the co-pilot and serious injury to the pilot was a sobering reminder of the perils of man’s attempt at space travel. In fact, one of our Board members had already made arrangements to be a passenger on one of its early flights. Now it appears his trip … Read More
Should Christians Vote?
During my daily commute to and from work the past few weeks, I have been struck by the sheer numbers of election posters at virtually every major intersection. Frankly, they remind me how blessed we are to live in America. Just think how few people over the entire course of history—from the time of Adam—have had the opportunity to choose … Read More
Reciprocal Generosity
I remember a time when as a pastor, my wife and I faced a very serious crisis. We were both discouraged. But unknown to us, a couple in the church had planned a surprise dinner for us in one of the finest restaurants in Dallas. When we walked in, we were escorted to a large banquet room where nearly 100 … Read More