Archive for month: January, 2022

God continues to pencil in his sketch of redemption through the pen of Moses. In Genesis 49, we read Jacob’s farewell address to his sons. These final words serve as a blessing and a prophecy. In verse 10, something remarkable happens. Judah, his fourth-born, will be the first. It will be from his line that Israel will have a king. We know that the King is ultimately Jesus-not only of Judah and Israel–but of the whole world! Pastor Adam helps us consider this small but crucial verse and why it’s vital for us today.

The Bible is God’s story. He is the main character. When his creatures sin against him, all creation is put under a curse. Death is ushered into God’s good world. God begins to mete out judgment upon Adam, Eve, and Satan in His perfect justice. Yet, even in judgment, there is hope. Like a bright and beautiful flower in the middle of a torched field, God’s promise in Genesis 3:15 is a stark reminder of his faithfulness and loving-kindness pursuing us against the backdrop of the fall. He will come to defeat all of our foes and bring us back to himself. Early in the story, God plants hope in the garden.

The Bible is God’s story. You can’t tell God’s story without the story of creation. God is the Creator of all things. Humans have the distinct honor and privilege of being the one creature made in God’s image and likeness. What a beautiful thing! Derek Riley explores Genesis 1:27-28 on our journey through the whole story of the Bible in 16 verses.

God graciously reveals himself to his creatures. We know something of him when we like at his creation. We know much more when we read his Word. Jesus Christ is the ultimate revelation of the Father. He pointed his disciples back to the Word and opened their minds that they might understand the Scriptures. Look for God by opening your Bible and praying that God would reveal himself to you!

Angels are servants of God who interact as agents in his world and do his bidding. At times, they are used by God to protect people. Is it possible to see them? As they intervene in God’s world, how are people to interact with them? Angels are mighty and strong, but our praise and worship should be directed to God–not angels! Beware of worshiping angels, believing false doctrine from angels, or praying to angels. We worship and believe God alone!