Merciful Savior Online

Redeemed Relationships: Living in God’s Kingdom

The book of Colossians centers on the "preeminence of Christ." Paul argues that because Jesus is the Lord of creation and the head of the Church, His redemption should permeate every corner of our lives. When we are brought to faith in His cross, we aren't just given a ticket to heaven; we are integrated into a new Kingdom with a new, God-pleasing way of relating to one another.

Set Your Sights Above: The New Life in Christ

In our baptism, a profound exchange took place. By the working of the Holy Spirit, we were joined to Jesus Christ in both His death and His resurrection. Our old, sinful nature — that “Adam” within us that rebels against God — was crucified and put to death on the cross with Jesus. But the story did not end at the grave. Just as Christ was raised by the glory of the Father, we have been raised to a brand-new life.

Do You Seek Him?

“What about you?” You have heard of His birth and even know of His sufferings and death for your sins and of His glorious resurrection. Do you reject Jesus and try to silence those who would speak to you of Him because Jesus is a threat to you and your way of life? Do you know all the facts about Jesus, but still fail to come and bow before Him and give Him your praise and worship? Or, like the wise men of old, do you follow the star (seeking the guidance of Holy Scripture) to find Messiah Jesus and worship your God and Savior, presenting Him with the costliest of gifts — your very lives?

Far more than a quaint story

These historical events hold great significance for each of us today. God’s own Son was born in Bethlehem on that historic day. His birth brings "good tidings of great joy" to us as well, for He is the long-promised Messiah, the Lord God Himself. He went to the cross for the sins of the world — for the sins of each of us — and rose again in victory. Through faith in Him, we have forgiveness for all our sins and the promise of eternal life.

Let the Redeemed of the LORD Say So

Life often feels like a series of unrelated struggles — wilderness wanderings, dark valleys, stormy seas, and dry deserts. Yet, Psalm 107 weaves these disparate experiences into a single tapestry of grace. It is a song for the weary traveler, but, more importantly, an instruction manual in gratitude for those who have been rescued.

Let no one judge you in regard to worship laws and traditions

Believers in Christ are not to let anyone judge them in regard to their food or drink, in regard to observing certain holy days or religious festivals, or in regard to observing the sabbath day. Why? Because believers in Jesus Christ are complete in Him.

Baptism: A Circumcision Made Without Hands

Why would anyone want to insist that it is necessary for a Christian to be circumcised and follow all the ceremonial laws of the Old Testament to be saved when believers are complete in Jesus and are blessed with all they need through their baptism into Christ Jesus?

Don’t be misled; hold fast to Christ!

The Apostle Paul warns his hearers, both at Colosse and around the world today, to beware “lest anyone should deceive you with persuasive words” (v. 4). Much is preached and proclaimed in the name of Christianity which is nothing of the sort.

When you come together ... 1 Corinthians 14

What do you think of when you hear the word church? For many, it conjures up an image of a well-organized service: a pastor delivers a sermon from the pulpit and leads the congregation in prayer, an organist, choir, or worship team leads in song, and the congregation listens respectfully. While this is the norm today, a peek into the first-century church reveals a different, more dynamic scene. The Apostle Paul’s instructions to the Corinthian church in 1 Corinthians 14 offer a glimpse into a time when every member had a part to play and worship was vibrant and communal.

A More Excellent Way

“But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way.” 1 Corinthians 12:31 (Read 1 Cor. 13)
 
After pointing out in 1 Corinthians 12 that the spiritual gifts God gives to those who trust in Jesus Christ and His cross for pardon and forgiveness are to be used for the benefit of the body of Christ, His church, made up of all who trust in Him, the Apostle Paul shows the believers in Corinth “a more excellent way” — how God would have us use the gifts and abilities He gives to us. Paul's message in 1 Corinthians 13 is a powerful reminder that all our gifts, knowledge, and actions are to be exercised in conjunction with selfless love — the love of Christ!