http://intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=78397&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
Jesus conceals truth for us, not 'from' us!
There are two main conceptions in what and why Jesus uses parables in edifying and instructing us. One, He uses simple everyday illustrations, allegories, stories, and word pictures that He pointed to, showcasing an illustration that people could understand and relate to. Second, in the illustration dwells a layered meaning-like an onion, if you will--that has a depth to it. His main reason? People, for the most part, are 'concrete' thinkers. We tend to look to the simplest, easiest meaning to mentally digest solution and rarely seek a deeper meaning or application. However, to grow in faith, we need to grow beyond ourselves, our perception, and our assumptions in order to grasp the true Truths Christ has for us. Thus, for us to grow in faith...
http://intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=36269&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
If truth is one, that is if truth has unity, then Christian education means understanding, and being excited by, the associations between the disciplines and showing how these associations are rooted in the Creator's existence. I do not know if you know what you are hearing or not. It is a flaming fire. It is gorgeous if you understand what we have in the teaching and revelation of God. If we are going to have really a Christian education, it means understanding truth is not a series of isolated subjects but there are associations, and the associations are rooted in nothing less than the existence of the Creator Himself.
http://intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=36268&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
I want to say to you, those of you who are Christians or even if you are not a Christian and you are troubled about the direction that our society is going in, that we must not concentrate merely on the bits and pieces. But we must understand that all of these dilemmas come on the basis of moving from the Judeo-Christian world view -- that the final reality is an infinite creator God -- over into this other reality...
http://intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=31643&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
The Word of God is essential to our function as a Christian. It is essential to our understanding of not only God, but ourselves as well. Without God's Word we will be purposeless and disrupted from our call and the purpose for our salvation. When we base our lives on the Word of God, then Christ can create His work in us by the power of the Spirit!
http://intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=32876&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
Worship will be the central aspect of Heaven. Thus, it must be the central aspect of doing church, and of each Christian's life!
Our understanding of what a church worship service is must reflect the precepts of Scripture. This includes our influence, and the format of our worship services.
http://intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=31635&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
The study of the Bible matters!
Do you realize that if you are a Christian, and have read the entire Bible, you are in the minority? Does this scare you? Well, it should! If you study the Bible yourself, you are in an even greater minority that even most pastors do not fall into! Yet, all of them would have an opinion of the Bible, teach, and make decisions based on their understanding of the Bible.
http://intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=31628&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
Understanding the impact of the Bible on history and its relevance for our lives!
Is the Bible important? Have you ever wondered what the Bible's influence has been on you, personally, whether you read it daily or not at all? What about others around you? Have you considered the Bible's relevance and importance in the shaping of Western society and culture? The fact is, the Bible has sold more copies than all other books in history and has shaped the hands that built this country, the United States of America. Even in the days of eroding family values, and an academic and political backlash to remove the Bible and its relevance, the fact is the Bible is the most important document and influence in Western culture. It has been more influential than the U.S. Constitution, the Magna Carta or any philosophical or political idea. The Bible is so important it has influenced much we take for granted in the world from science, technology, and even our political system! And...
http://intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=32835&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
Understanding the Importance of Spiritual Gifts!
Spiritual Gifts are alive and well both in the Church and in the world. They are not from a bygone era or only for certain Denominations or individuals; they are for you and your church!
http://intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=32834&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
Understanding God's call to us with Spiritual Gifts
Now that I am a Christian, I get presents?
http://intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=32854&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
Stewardship Part I
Q: What does stewardship mean to you?
There are two words that send the average congregation and common churchgoer into fear and panic, from the leadership and pastorate, that fears to offend or drive people away, to the church member who may be too far stretched in time and giving, and cannot give anymore, to the person who does not want to be convicted, lest he be forced to reach for the sacred will of his wallet or the exercise of His call. Yet, these two words are simple, and needed, because the church and the body of Christ could not function without them being proclaimed and exercised: These simple words are...