The Lovely Fruit of Good Teaching (Baugh)

In the opening words of Paul's first letter to Timothy, he reminds his young colleague of the aim or telos of the apostles' teaching: love that comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith (1 Tim. 1:5 NET). The false teachers in Ephesus neither taught nor practiced these things. But Paul…

On Calvinists, Conflict, and Controversy (Newton)

There are some areas of the Christian faith that are not matters of chief importance.  They are important, but not essentially or fundamentally important.  For example, there are different views of Christian schooling, different views of the elements of the Lord’s Supper (grape juice or wine), different views of how deacons should function in a…

On Avoiding People Who Cause Divisions (Calvin)

When talking about people who sinfully cause division in the church, this is what Paul told Titus: Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them. You may be sure that such people are warped and sinful; they are self-condemned. (Titus 3:10-11 NIV). This inspired…

Troublers in the Church (Bridges)

 It's not a new occurrence when someone purposely tries to disrupt the unity and peace of a local Christian church. Paul had to deal with the Judaizers (cf. Gal; Phil. 3:2, etc.).  John had to warn the church of antichrists and false prophets (1 John). The list goes on.  Thankfully I'm not dealing with any…

Marriage Conflict and Separation

 No marriage is perfect.  Husbands and wives sin.  Every marriage has at least some conflict from time to time.  I probably don't need to explain this fact since most of us know it from experience!  Sadly, however, some marriage conflict is destructive and dangerous.  There are husbands that emotionally and physically abuse their wives and…