We begin a new series of studies about the New Testament books of Philippians and Colossians. Have you ever been arrested and put in jail or prison? I have not. But it is something that I think about. Early in my legal career, my job was to put criminals in prison. In the United States we have so many statutes that criminalize activities that no one could possibly know them all. Driving your car in certain circumstances could land you in jail. Associating with friends who engage in criminal activity could get you imprisoned. The Apostle Paul, who wrote Philippians and Colossians, wrote them while he was in prison. And he was in prison for witnessing about Jesus. Let's plunge into our study of these prison letters!...
How is your prayer life? Are you satisfied with it, or do you think it could use some improvement? One of my co-workers is an advocate of "contemplative prayer." He puts a sign on the door to his office saying that he should not be disturbed because he is praying. Sitting quietly is very difficult for me, and sitting quietly for prayer isn't any easier. I seem best connected to God when studying the Bible while writing these lessons or listening to a sermon. Our study this week is primarily focused on Paul's prayers for the Philippians and the Colossians. Let's dive into our study of these prayers to see what we can learn to advance our personal prayer life!...
Have you wondered why some Christians fight death when life becomes painful due to disease? Why not welcome death and heaven? Do you think about your own death? This is the beginning of a new year and most people think about how they can improve their health and life in the new year. That seems very different than contemplating death. However, in our study this week, Paul writes about death. He knows that he could be executed by the Roman government at any time. Christians who live in countries that provide religious freedom do not really understand these thoughts about impending death at the hands of government. Let's get into our study of the Bible and see what we can learn from Paul's thoughts about death and life!...
