1 PETER 4:12-19 Introduction Genre: There isn’t much debate about 1 Peter; it is a letter with all the characteristics of an epistolary letter, with the exception of the co-sender as in the format of Paul’s letters. The opening, thanksgiving, body and closing are the four elements of an epistle. … ∞
End times are good times I’m sure that many of us have exchanged pleasantries with eschatology over the last few years. I remember many blog posts, YouTube videos, and comment sections that were inundated with a conversation surrounding whether or not the Covid-19 vaccine was the mark of the beast, … ∞
A poem, By Amanda Mason Who am I before you, God? Who is it that you have planned for me to be? Who am I among you? In Christ Jesus, my Lord? Who am I before you, God? If the Spirit lives in me now, Lord, Then why do I … ∞
As a seminary student, finishing up the semester well is not only about getting good grades, but also about preparing yourself for the future ministry. This is my last year as a student here at Calvin and i thought it might be helpful to share what I’ve gleaned as a … ∞
Last semester, I was given the opportunity to choose to write on the topic of my choosing regarding the Creeds and Confessions of the Christian church. As a result I chose to write on Christ’s descent into hell, obviously an easy one to think about. And while this is a … ∞
We want what we don’t have Since the dawn of time humanity has desired things that others have, or things that they are not allowed to have. All that it takes is to read the first three chapters of Genesis to recognize this fatal flaw. Although it’s difficult to imagine … ∞
Our dog detested being shackled. When he is bound, he will fight tooth and nail to break free. Even though the chain is piercing his neck severely, he won’t let go until he is free of the thing he despises. Oh, see how a typical dog struggles for liberty. Sir, … ∞
As a mom of four and a hybrid MDIV student, I don’t often find time to do things for myself. Many well-meaning friends, family members, doctors, and my therapist have talked to me a lot about self-care over the past year or so as more and more things seemed to … ∞
When we consider how Jesus Christ loved us and gave Himself on the cross for us, we can’t help but love Him. We often want to do something for Him in return. So we might ask the Lord questions like: “What do You want me to do for You?” and … ∞
Spring is in the air here in Ontario, Canada, as Easter has just passed and we wind down thinking about the death and resurrection of Jesus. I find it almost fitting that it happens every year at the beginning of spring. Is this a historical coincidence or a biblical fact? … ∞
*potential trigger warning. I was asked this the other day, and almost simultaneously had an issue similar to it in a discussion for a class I’m taking here at CTS. So below is what I settled on as a working answer beyond the typical “yes, obviously” that is spit out … ∞
He is dead. This was the second sentence of the sermon that was preached at our friend Henry’s funeral earlier this year. Henry had died by suicide. The words crashed into me like a ton of bricks nearly knocking the wind out of me as I sat in the back … ∞
Romans 4:1-5 1 What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, discovered in this matter? 2 If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about—but not before God. 3 What does Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was credited … ∞
Easter is a time of joy, When we celebrate with all our might, But some folks get a bit confused, And think it’s all about the bunny’s might. The bunny’s cute, it’s true enough, And brings us treats and joy and stuff, But Easter’s more than just that fluff, It’s … ∞
The following letter is the first installment in what will be a series of letters to JohnCalvin. These “Dear John letters” are meant to speak for those who are wrestling withwhether to stay in the Christian Reformed church or divorce the church that they’veloved. Rather than trying to solve theological … ∞
