God revealed Himself through HIs word and it is in His word that God gave us the doctrine of Scripture. Bibliology is the lens by which we see God. If our lens is tinted, blurred, or otherwise skewed, all that we see is distorted and out of focus. But if our lens is clear and prestine, we can see crystal clear what God has revealed about Himself and our souls are richly blessed by believing, honoring, and obeying all that He has said. In this first study of Bibliology, we focus on the doctrine of inspiration. May the Spirit of God grant us both the mind and heart to receive His word for our good and for the glory of God.
2 Timothy 2:15, Intro to Theology: Cutting It Straight
This introductory sermon to a new series on systematic theology addresses four questions: What is theology? What are its benefits? What are its obstacles? And why is it necessary? May the Lord grant us deeper understanding of the whole counsel of God in these areas of doctrine, so that we may know more fully the God we trust, believe, and love—for all who trust in Him will never be disappointed.
Gal. 5:16-25, The Cross and the Spirit
How can I change? This is a question that arises when we consider the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The apostle Paul points us to the twofold answer of the cross and the Spirit. He speaks not to condemn but to call us back to the basics of the Christian faith. We must trust in Christ who bore the cross in the place of sinners and heed His call to put to death the flesh and inviting the powerful influence of the Spirit of truth to dictate our thoughts and our affections. May the Lord tame the wolf of our flesh as the lion of the Spirit is enthroned in our minds and hearts.
John 21:23-25, Jesus Christ: True, Real, and More
John 21:18-22, Why We Follow Jesus
How would Simon ever become the rock of a disciple and martyr John’s audience knew him to be? John answers with the twenty-first chapter that by the grace of God Simon became who he was known for. The Lord gave him the certainty of His word, His discipleship, and His sovereignty. He persuaded Simon to follow Him.
John 21:15-17, The Way Up Is The Way Down
Simon Peter had sinned grievously against the Lord. But because Jesus bore his sins on His body on the cross, there was forgiveness for him. Moreover, there was restoration waiting for him. Jesus restored this man. He could never be Rocky on his own by his own strength and will-power, but the Lord takes this man and brings him low before bringing him high. He humbles him before exalting him.
John 21:1-14, The Way of Grace
Jesus treated His disciples better than they deserved. He demonstrated to them His mercy, His provision, and His kindness. This is the Lord’s dealings with His elect. He will woo them and draw them to faith and repentance. This is indeed how the Lord deals with His elect throughout the ages. Those whom He has chosen He showers His kindness to lead them to repentance—though at times with the rod. May our hearts be warmed and led to surrender to the Lord in sweet yieldedness toward Him.
Ephesians 5:15-21, Redeem the Time
God has a purpose for our existence. Our time on earth is an opportunity to understand and carry out that will. In this study, we explore the will of God revealed in this text, book, and the whole of Scripture. May the Lord enable. us to not be foolish but understand what the will of the Lord is, and live as Spirit-filled men and women who speak like no one else, sing like no one else, give thanks like no one else, and relate to others like no one else. May we aim to spend much time with our Lord this year and grow in His likeness.