Topic > Christian Beliefs
Worshiping with Questions
It’s not uncommon during a long (or short!) trip for someone in a group of travelers to ask, “Are we there yet?” or “How much longer?” Who hasn’t heard these universal queries coming from the lips of children and adults eager to arrive at their destination? But people of all ages are also prone to ask similar questions when wearied because of life challenges that never seem to cease.
Such was the case with David in Psalm 13. Four times in two verses, David—who felt forgotten, forsaken, and defeated—lamented “How long?” “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long…
Discerning When Scripture Is Meant To Be Universal And When It Is Not
Scripture is God-breathed. But that doesn’t necessarily mean we can apply a verse to every situation. Today on Discover the Word, we invite authors, Randy Richards, and Brandon O’Brien, to help us discern when Scripture’s application is meant to be universal, and when it’s meant to be limited. Our series is called, “Misreading Paul” . . . […]
What Can’t You Give Up?
“What’s one thing you can’t give up?” the radio host asked. Listeners called in with some interesting answers. Some mentioned their families, including a husband who shared memories of a deceased wife. Others shared they can’t give up on their dreams, such as making a living in music or becoming a mother. All of us have something we treasure dearly—a person, a passion, a possession—something we can’t give up.
In the book of Hosea, God tells us that He won’t give up on His chosen people Israel, His treasured possession. As Israel’s loving husband, God provided her with everything she needed:…
What Does Paul Have To Say About The Role Of Women In The Church?
When you read the Gospels, it seems obvious that Jesus intentionally includes women in his ministry, but other parts of Scripture seem less friendly toward women. Today on Discover the Word, we are joined at the table by authors Randy Richards and Brandon O’Brien, to wrestle with what Paul said about women’s role in the church. Join […]
What Were Some Of The Complex Racial Issues Of Ancient Rome?
Slavery was rampant in ancient times. So why didn’t Jesus or the apostles ever speak out against it? Today on Discover the Word, the team sits down with authors Randy Richards and Brandon O’Brien to discuss the complex socioeconomic system that existed in ancient Rome. Another fascinating conversation to keep us from “Misreading Paul” today on Discover the […]
What Were Some Of The Challenges Paul Faced In His Cross-Cultural World?
One of the greatest issues we’re wrestling with in our world today is how to advance racial reconciliation. And today on Discover the Word, we are joined by authors Randy Richards and Brandon O’Brien to discuss the challenges Paul faced in his cross-cultural life and ministry. We’re continuing our series called, “Misreading Paul” today on Discover the Word!
Understanding Context Can Help Keep Us From Misreading The Bible
It’s easy to point fingers at someone’s behavior until you understand the reasons behind it. Today on Discover the Word, we sit down with authors Randy Richards and Brandon O’Brien to explore how understanding the context of the apostle Paul’s actions helps us to appreciate what he’s trying to tell us and can keep us from “Misreading […]
Infinite Dimensions
I lay still on the vinyl-covered mat and held my breath on command as the machine whirred and clicked. I knew lots of folks had endured MRI’s, but for claustrophobic me, the experience required focused concentration on something—Someone—much bigger than myself.
In my mind, a phrase from Scripture (“how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ,” Ephesians 3:18) moved in rhythm with the machine’s hum. In Paul’s prayer for the Ephesian church, he described four dimensions to God’s love in order to stress the unending parameters of God’s love and presence.
My position while lying down for…
The Apostle Paul And Some Of His Shortcomings
We know nobody is perfect, but when you really admire somebody it’s easy to gloss over their flaws. Today on Discover the Word, the team invites authors Randy Richards and Brandon O’Brien to the table for another challenging conversation about the apostle Paul and some of his shortcomings. Join us today for Discover the Word!
Important Perspectives That Keep Us From Misreading Scripture
When reading the Bible, trying to navigate the complex historical context in which it was written can make it downright intimidating! Today on Discover the Word, we are joined by authors Randy Richards and Brandon O’Brien, to discuss some important perspectives that can keep us from misreading Scripture. Listen today to Discover the Word!
What Kind of Savior Is He?
Last year, friends and I prayed for healing for three women battling cancer. We knew God had the power to do this, and we asked Him to do so every day. We’d seen Him work in the past and believed He could do it again. There were days in each one’s battle where healing looked like it was a reality, and we rejoiced. But they all died that fall. Some said that was “the ultimate healing,” and in a way it was. Still the loss hurt us deeply. We wanted Him to heal them all—here and now—but for reasons we…
Biblical Characters And The 21st-Century Western Culture
Most of us have favorite biblical characters, but we run the risk of misunderstanding them when we try to fit them into our 21st-century Western culture. Today on Discover the Word, the team sits down with authors Randy Richards and Brandon O’Brien and continue to discuss how to keep from “Misreading Paul.” Join us today for Discover the […]
“Misreading Paul”
Sometimes we tend to view biblical characters with rose-colored glasses, failing to see their faults or shortcomings. But that’s not reality! Today on Discover the Word, the team is joined by authors Randy Richards and Brandon O’Brien to explore together what is often perceived as the apostle Paul’s less-than-perfect behavior. A thought-provoking study called “Misreading Paul” today […]
The Greater Glory
Caesar Augustus is remembered as the first and greatest of the Roman emperors. By political skill and military power he eliminated his enemies, expanded the empire, and lifted Rome from the clutter of rundown neighborhoods into a city of marble statues and temples. Adoring Roman citizens referred to Augustus as the divine father and savior of the human race. As his 40-year reign came to an end, his official last words were, “I found Rome a city of clay but left it a city of marble.” According to his wife, however, his last words were actually, “Have I played the…
Difficult Choices And Following God
When you’re faced with a difficult choice it can be tough to be confident in choosing the way to go. Factor in wanting to be sure you’re following God and that can add another level of complexity. Today on Discover the Word we will conclude the series titled, “Standing at the Crossroads.” Join the group for a thought-provoking discussion […]
