More Courage in My Convictions
(PART 1)
When called to take a stand for Jesus, we often feel we lack courage or expertise. Courage comes through the Spirit and a firm conviction that Jesus is the only way.
The Battle for the Bible
In Today’s New International Version, pronouns have been adjusted to make the Scriptures more inclusive of women. But this new translation has sparked a firestorm of angry criticism. A controversial new version of America’s best-selling Bible has divided some charismatic-Pentecostal leaders over the issue of gender references. Since January when its publication was announced, the …
Why I’m For the TNIV
In the spring of 2002, Zondervan and the International Bible Society released the Today’s New International Version (TNIV) of the New Testament. Approximately 7 percent of the text is changed from the last American revision of the NIV, published in 1984. A little less than 30 percent of these changes involve inclusive language for humanity–using …
Why I’m Against the TNIV
I agree with removing male-oriented words from the Bible when there is no male-oriented meaning in the original Greek or Hebrew text. But when there is a male meaning, we dare not under-translate and conceal that meaning just because that emphasis is unpopular today. The heart of the controversy is this: In hundreds of verses, …
Equally Redeemed From the Fall
The Bible teaches cooperation between strong, Godly men and women. How can we come to better understand our roles as co-heirs of God’s grace?
Seeing the Invisible
(PART 1)
Developed spiritual sight is a valuable tool when making decisions. If we ask Him, God will guide us in choosing the best territory for us and our descendants.
Secure in an Insecure World
(Part 1)
Since the 9/11 tragedy, fear has become as great an enemy as terrorists. Believers can refute fear by trusting the Word of God, which promises God will protect us.
We Must Bow in Awe
(Part 1)
The Bible predicts a time of judgment is coming to the earth. As Christians, our response to tragedies like September 11 is crucial, because others are taking their cues from us.
The Freedom to Forgive
When we are treated unfairly, our natural man wants revenge. Jesus showed us a better way–a way to freedom. Bitterness destroys us, but forgiveness brings healing.
Falling in Love with Jesus
(PART 1)
According to Jesus, the greatest commandment involves loving God. However, we cannot love God by ourselves. We learn to love by asking God to love through us.
The Priority of Praise
God views praise and worship as high spiritual priorities. Praise, meaning “value” or “price,” is the proclamation of God’s importance or worth.
Many of the praise and worship expressions in the Scriptures were exhibited around David’s tabernacle and are still culturally functional for today. As defined in Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance, some of these Hebrew and Greek words are “ingredients” for the posture of worship and service to God.
Towdah is an extension of the hand. It implies a choir of worshipers lifting their hands (see Ps. 100:4).
A Woman’s Right to Preach
Many christians object to the idea of women in ministry because they believe the bible forbids it. The scriptures show their belief is unfounded.
How is it that women would venture to preach when female ministry is forbidden in the Word of God?
This is a serious objection to consider and, if capable of substantiation, would receive my immediate and cheerful acquiescence; but I think I can show, by a fair and consistent interpretation, that the very opposite view is the truth–that the public ministry of women is absolutely enjoined by both precept and example in the Word of God.
Behold His Glory
(Part 1)
We often cry out for God to send His glory among us. But how well do we understand what we’re asking for? God’s glory encompasses His holy character revealed in Jesus.
READ Ex. 24:15-18; Ex. 33:18-23; Lev. 11:45; 2 Cor. 3:18; Col. 1:25-29; Heb. 1:1-3.
God Didn’t Call You to be a Doormat!
Christians often suggest that God created women to be frail and quiet. But biblical submission is not about weakness or silence.
According to self-proclaimed relationship expert Laura Doyle, “something magical” happened when she decided to “surrender control” in her marriage. She stopped doing the family finances. She started cooing “Whatever you think” when her husband wanted her opinion.
She decided that the way to secure happiness in marriage was to become “a surrendered wife.” Then she started organizing clubs all over the country to teach other women how to, as she says, “relinquish control.”
Revival of the Heart
All over the world, the Spirit is pouring out revival. New measures of glory expose our bitter roots and unclean hearts. Through repentance, we can be cleansed and set free.