In the ancient world, a covenant established a relationship of solidarity and loyalty. It was based on solemn promises, sealed with signs, and often regulated by a covenant document (the book of Deuteronomy is the fullest example in the Bible). The covenant document came from the lord of the covenant, stating who he was and how the relationship with his people had been established, and giving the conditions of the relationship.
Michael Bennett’s book is brilliant. I loved it. Let me tell you why.
Unless we are very deliberate and diligent, evangelism will almost always ‘fall of the table’ when push comes to shove in church (or Christian group) practice.
Many older people—and some younger ones too—have difficulty sleeping right through the night, spending hours or minutes trying to go to sleep. Many years ago, I was discussing insomnia with Dr Paul White, the famous “Jungle Doctor”. He stated, “If I can’t sleep, I don’t count sheep, I talk to the Shepherd.” The idea fascinated me, as a very frustrating time could then be used for something worthwhile.
When Jesus arrived in Jerusalem, he wept bitterly over the people and spoke about the temple’s imminent obliteration, in part because the temple was operating as a “den of robbers” (Luke 19:41-46). The inspection grade was a clear fail!
The New Testament calls believers to counter-intuitive and unnatural activities. Perhaps one of the hardest is this: rejoice in suffering (Rom 5:3).
Book Four of the Psalms is filled with songs that express the joy of the Jewish exiles’ return to their land and to the place where God would again dwell with his people. Its psalms move from the battlefield to victory, reconstruction, blessing and thanksgiving. (7 studies)
Summaries and links for further reading on the commodification of the body parts of aborted babies, the invitation to "come as you are", and how to win by not arguing.
When learning to pray, children (and adults!) often fall into a rut. They use the same words and pray the same things every time. I came up with an idea to help, to make praying fun, and to prompt the people praying to consider more things to pray about.
Do your friends know the goodness of the Christian hope? Do you?