I find it curious that Jesus never rebuked people for their beliefs or their doctrines, but he did for their behavior. With his disciples, Jesus warned against those scribes who appear in nice clothes, greet others in the market place and desire places of honor at banquets, yet they take over houses of widows andContinue reading “Blessed By God Or Just Shrewd”
Category Archives: affluence
Why Didn’t The Leaders Repent?
Over and over Jesus addressed the religious leaders of his day, revealing to them what was in their hearts. Ironically they did not deny what Jesus said. After Jesus told them the parable of the tenant farmers, who killed the owner’s servants and murdered his son, the heir, the leaders knew that Jesus was speakingContinue reading “Why Didn’t The Leaders Repent?”
Kingdom Values
When Jesus observed individuals making contributions to the temple treasury, he made a surprising observation revealing that Jesus doesn’t necessarily take quantity into account, but sacrifice. While many gave more than the poor widow, she sacrificed more, because she gave all she had to live on. This is what pleases Jesus, what we sacrifice inContinue reading “Kingdom Values”
Living and Following Truth
The story of the rich ruler, in Mark 10 identified as a man who ran up to Jesus, reveals the cost of entering the Kingdom of God. His decision to keep his wealth and not follow Jesus, reminds me of what martyred missionary Jim Elliot had said that one is no fool who gives upContinue reading “Living and Following Truth”
Dealing With Affluence
For those of us who live in the developed world, we have the challenge of dealing with our affluence. It is important for us to recognize the dangerous snare that the so-called American Dream lays out for us. While the American Dream promises comfort and an appearance of security, it has a high cost ofContinue reading “Dealing With Affluence”