Outside Of the Tomb

Reflections on the Resurrection: Living In and Out of the Tomb

Resurrection Morning by James Martin

Batman and the Christian Life

My favorite superhero of all time is Batman. For those unfamiliar with the story of Batman (shame on you!), I will give you the shorthand version in the majority of DC Comic Universes and stories regarding his origins. Bruce Wayne is the child of a business mogul Thomas Wayne (Owner of Wayne Enterprises) and his mother Martha Wayne. One night they are heading down an alley after taking in a theatrical performance and are approached by an unknown man (Joe Chill, small time crime boss is the accepted murderer in some circles). This man kills both of Bruce’s parents in front of him traumatizing a young Bruce for life.

Sometimes Jesus Hides And I’m Grateful

Jesus hides.

Dear Atheists: I Don’t Believe In Your god Either! (UPDATED)

Dear Atheists,

I don’t believe in your god either.

Preparing An Effective Sermon

Introduction

Sermons are perhaps the most important element in a church service. Worshippers have sang their songs, tithing has been received, and the congregation is filled with the Holy Spirit. They are expecting the sermon to be God centered and effective. What God has led the pastor to preach this Sunday must be executed showing proper preparation, reflection, and time spent seeking God’s input. Stan Toler says of preaching, “Preaching is a craft- a craft that demands craftsmanship.”[1] How one prepares and crafts their sermon lays a firm foundation for how the sermon will be delivered and ultimately pan out. In following this thought, here are several principles for sermon preparation that are useful and vital for an effective sermon.

Hidden Grace: A Commentary On Job

“Even if I were in the right, my own mouth would condemn me; If I were blameless, my mouth would declare me guilty.”

– Job 9:20[1]

 The Book of Job is a book that has always challenged my concept of God and understanding of The Bible in general. On the one hand, you have a man who is full of faith and love for God to the point that he would endure the loss of everything for Him. On the other hand, you have God agreeing to seemingly make a bet with a man’s life in the middle. I must admit that the idea of God accepting a challenge from Satan is a tad bit troubling. The book of Job has just as much relevance today as it had to the Jews far off in the past. The story must be embraced and shared just as The Bible should be shared in its’ entirety. Job represents the past, the present, and the future for every believer who dedicates their life to following God.

The Cross Part III: Lay It Down

This is the third and final installment on mys eries on the Cross. This segment will focus on forgiveness, burdens, and failures and how we insist on carrying that luggage around.

The Cross Part II: Pursuing Salvation

As I continue with this series on the Cross and what it stands for, today I will be focusing on salvation. God’s gift of salvation is for anyone who seeks Him through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The Cross Part I: Worry

Today I will begin a series on burdens and struggles we face in life. It is important that we remember what The Cross stands for and what it can still do in our lives even after we have accepted Christ.