Jonah 1:17-2:10

A cursory reading of Jonah’s prayer notices many similarities with typical thanksgiving psalms, but a consideration of the context and more careful consideration raise some questions.

Jonah 1:1-16

The book of Jonah is a masterful literary work inspired by the Holy Spirit to reveal important spiritual truths.

Matthew 12:22-37

In this narrative section, the Pharisees’ animosity towards Jesus intensifies with their accusation that he is in league with Satan. Jesus’ response includes one of his most sober warnings.

Matthew 12:15-21

This passage includes the longest quotation from the Hebrew Scriptures that is found in the book of Matthew. It comes from one of the four “Servant Songs” of the prophet: Isaiah 42:1-1-9, Isaiah 49:1-13, Isaiah 50:4-9, and Isaiah 52:13-53:12.

Matthew 12:9-14

These verses continue to address the theme of Sabbath observance, providing an opportunity for us to consider Jesus’ fulfillment of the law on behalf of his people.

Matthew 12:1-8

The narratives of chapter twelve follow logically on the wonderful invitation given by Jesus at the end of chapter eleven.

Matthew 11:16-30

These verses carry forward Jesus’ thoughts that began with his response to John the Baptist’s question.

Matthew 11:7-15

Jesus makes a most remarkable declaration following his exchange with John’s disciples.

Matthew 11:1-6

This passage raises for us the issue of how believers are to respond when they begin to have doubts.

First John 5:21

The apostle closes his epistle with an interesting command.

First John 5:20

This sermon focuses on the third “we know” statement by the apostle as he closes his letter.

First John 5:19

The apostle assures his readers that they are of God, which is a a great source of encouragement in the face of opposition from the world.

First John 5:18

The apostle affirms important biblical truths as he begins to close his letter.

First John 5:16-17

Following his assurance that God hears the prayers of his children, the apostle addresses a specific and important concern for prayer in this text.

First John 5:13-15

There is both encouragement and challenge for believers in this text.

First John 5:6-12

The apostle addresses the theme of belief, highlighting the role of the Spirit in witnessing to Jesus as the Son of God.

First John 5:1-5

As the apostle draws his letter to a conclusion, he reinforces key themes that he has discussed.

First John 4:11-21

The apostle continues to develop the theme of God’s love for us and our love for one another.

First John 4:7-11

from the hymn “Here Is Love” by William Rees (1802-1883):

Here is love, vast as the ocean,

Lovingkindness as the flood,

When the Prince of life, our ransom,

Shed for us His precious blood. . . .

On the mount of crucifixion

Fountains opened deep and wide;

Through the floodgates of God’s mercy

Flowed a vast and gracious tide.

Grace and love, like mighty rivers,

Poured incessant from above,

And heaven’s peace and perfect justice

Kissed a guilty world in love.

First John 4:1-6

The apostle continues to provide wise counsel to his spiritual children.