Christ Welcoming the Repentant Sinner (Henry)

Earlier this week I noted how Mark's account of Jesus' resurrection includes the restoration of Peter after his denial of Christ (Mark 16:7). On that same passage, and along the same lines, here's how Matthew Henry comments on it. Reminder: Christ's arms are always open to repentant sinners. Always! They [the women] must be sure …

God’s Kindness Towards His Backsliding Servants (Or: Go Tell Peter!) (Ryle)

If you remember Mark's account of Peter's denial, you'll remember how Peter dropped out of the story after he denied Christ three times. Mark doesn't mention him again till after Christ's resurrection. To be precise, an angel tells the women at the empty tomb to go tell the disciples and Peter that they will see …

Four Realities About Forgiveness (Boice)

Do you ever struggle to believe you've been forgiven by God? As a Christian, you may know in your head that the Bible talks about forgiveness of sin. And you know in your head that since you believe in Christ, truly, your sins are forgiven. But sometimes, that reality doesn't sink in, and you possibly doubt …

Our Sins, Christ’s Blood

This book is good for sermon or teaching illustrations: The Preacher's Notebook by John Stott. I was reading parts of it recently and came across this helpful quote about assurance, sin, Satan, and Christ's blood: Martin Luther once had a terrible dream. As he dreamed, Satan came to him with three big scrolls (old fashioned …

Our Relationship with God: Secure (Stott)

For the past few days, I've been studying the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints for a sermon series I'm preaching. This is a beautiful doctrine that is rich and deep. One aspect of it is that through his death, resurrection, and intercession, Christ has secured a loving relationship with God for us. It's …