John Woodward
The Roots of Insecurity Part 5
5. Uncertainty of Election One of the most incomprehensible aspects of redemption is the antinomy of the sovereignty of God and the responsibility of man. Although space does not allow us to delve into the arguments for/against Calvinism or Arminianism, the confusion about election and predestination may stir up insecurity regarding one’s salvation. The Calvinist…
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4. Faith in Faith Have you ever doubted your salvation because your conversion experience was less sensational than someone else’s? I recall in my teenage years being awed by testimonies of some who had been notorious rascals for decades and then were gloriously saved. Although I rejoice in the way God redeems such lives, I…
Read MoreThe Roots of Insecurity Part 3
3. Carnal confusion When a born again believer is temporarily walking “according to the flesh,” doubts may arise in his/her mind as to whether or not they have lost their salvation or if they are truly regenerate.[1] One reason for this is that when the Holy Spirit is grieved and quenched by intentional sin in…
Read MoreThe Roots of Insecurity (Part 2)
2. Legalism “Legalism” involves legislating ideal behaviors, trying to gain practical righteousness by self-effort, and focusing on externals more than the heart motives. The Galatian church fell into this trap due to false teachers: “O foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you that you should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ was clearly…
Read MoreThe Roots of Insecurity (Part 1)
One of the important foundations for a healthy, vital Christian life is the assurance of your salvation. It is nearly impossible to have Christ as the center of your life if you’re not sure He is in your life as personal Savior (John 1:12). Many believers who struggle with uncertainty regarding their standing with God…
Read MoreScripture Memory Project
Scripture Memory Project God promises special blessings to us when we memorize His Word. As Joshua was counseled by Moses, “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For…
Read MoreCore Values for the Christian Family
Core Values for the Christian Family A Study Outline In this generation, “family values” has become a popular term. May we clearly identify what values are eternally valuable and live accordingly. A. The Relevance of Values“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). B. Biblical Values Summarized 1. The Glory…
Read MoreGreater Works
Christ promised His disciples, “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father” (John 14:12 emphasis added). Since the Lord Jesus Christ has unlimited power and sinless character, it is…
Read MoreThe Virgin Birth of Christ (Part 3)
We have seen the historical and supernatural qualities of the Nativity. Now let’s consider its significance for the Christian’s salvation and abundant living. 3. The virgin birth of Christ is doctrinal. There are many theological and doctrinal implications of Christ’s conception and birth. a. The Virgin Birth confirms Christ’s nature as fully divine and fully…
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“On a plaque marking Abraham Lincoln’s birthplace near Hodgenville, Kentucky, is recorded this scrap of conversation: ‘Any news down at the village, Ezry?’ ‘Well, Squire McLain’s gone to Washington to see Madison swore in, and old Spellman tells me this Bonaparte fella has captured most of Spain. What’s new out here, neighbor?’ ‘Nothing, nothing at…
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