Paul’s words to the Corinthians, is a classic definition of “holiness” and states in clear terms Jehovah’s demand, “Ye shall be holy, for I am holy” and “be ye yourselves holy in all manner of living” (2 Cor.6:17; 1 Pet.1:15-16). Holiness, as often defined, means to be “set apart” from the world. It calls disciples of Christ to a “distinct” and “special” life that elevates their thinking and lives above the “present evil” that has and always will define the world (1 John 2:15-17). [Read the rest of this entry...]

Far too frequently, our perception of the enemy is flawed. We envision him coming into our lives in a boisterous and obvious manner, wreaking havoc and prompting fear. While this approach may be employed on occasion, more often than not he accomplishes his objectives by quietly lulling us into a spiritual stupor. Jesus called him the “father of lies” (John 8:44). Paul tells us he cunning and devious (2 Cor.11:14). We are admonished not to be “ignorant of his schemes” (2:11) and instructed to put on the full armor of God in order to protect ourselves against attack (Eph.6:11). [Read the rest of this entry...]

I “rendered to Caesar” today. Our property taxes were due, so I sent in the payment to avoid the penalty. I almost had to force my hand to write the check. I seemed to walk in slow motion as I made the trek to put the envelope in the mailbox. From the window I watched the mailman drive away with money that was once mine. There are some things in life you do out of necessity rather than pleasure. I suppose paying your taxes is one of them.

Sadly, some people see their service to God in the same way. It’s a matter of “have to” instead of “want to.” There is no joy or happiness involved in it, just a mere going through the motions. To them, discipleship itself has become a tax or a burden rather than a blessing. [Read the rest of this entry...]

Christians are called to a higher standard whether they reside in 1st century Corinth or 21st century America. And both genders are challenged. Let’s cut to the chase: When it comes to immodesty, we live in a “War Zone”—where each day is a battle to control and conquer the mind. Women are confronted with their need to clothe themselves in a way that doesn’t invite “the look” (lust) of men (Prov.7:10; 1 Tim.2:9); while men are admonished to avoid “the look” (lust) that causes sin (Matt.5:28).

So neither gender is excused. [Read the rest of this entry...]

A man who accepts the task of preaching the gospel accepts a dreadful responsibility. “My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment” (James 3:1). Application of these words may not be limited to what we commonly term local preachers, but they apply in a special way to such men. The longer a man remains with a church, doing such work, the more responsible he becomes for the convictions and faithfulness of the members. [Read the rest of this entry...]

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. (1 Corinthians 9:24-27)

I have played nine seasons in the National Football League. In the world of football we train constantly. The NFL season starts in late July (they like to wait till it gets as hot as possible) with a Training Camp that consists of around fifty practices before we ever play a real game—this lasts for five to six weeks. Then you enter a professional season that lasts seventeen weeks. It is grueling. [Read the rest of this entry...]