New Relational Lines
July 7, 2024 • Bill Elliff • 1 Peter 3:1–12
Following Christ impacts our relationships with others. Our marriages, our friendships, our parenting, should all look different from the world. If you are temporarily visiting a place, how you interact with others is obvious. Peter is telling us people should know we are temporary residents by how we treat others. Love is the central characteristic of all godly relationships. Kingdom relationships are identified by love, worldly relationships are identified by power.
Faith That Comes From Heaven
July 9, 2023 • Bill Elliff • James 3:13–18
There are two sources (and types) of wisdom: worldly wisdom and Godly wisdom. Worldly wisdom comes from hell – it is of the devil. It is false and self-centered and evidenced by works of jealousy which leads to disorder and evil. Godly wisdom comes from heaven, operates in godliness, and produces righteousness and peace.
Faith That Perseveres
June 4, 2023 • Bill Elliff • James 1:1–18
Trials and temptations are both inevitable. God desires to deepen our faith through both. Knowing God is sovereign over our trials helps us grow in His likeness, trust Him for wisdom, depend on Him for provision, and live in His blessings. Understanding the origin of sin helps us to overcome its deception that leads to death. Growing through trials and overcoming sin helps us to experience Him and His salvation and goodness.