In chapter 32 of Genesis we saw how Jacob had a faith crisis. He struggled with his upcoming encounter with Esau. He was concerned for his own safety and the safety of his family. In his faith crisis, Jacob was humbled by the hand of God. He learned that God’s way is always the…
Along the journey of the Christian life there are points of faith crisis’. There are times when our faith is put to the test. Such a crisis does not make a man, but it shows what a man is really made of. These tests of faith reveal what is in our hearts. It shows…
There is really no way to avoid it. Through out life we find ourselves in the middle of one dispute after another. No two people are exactly alike. If you put any two random people in a room and have them discuss anything they desire, you will soon discover that there is something that…
Here in the first sixteen verses of Genesis thirty-one, we learn a very valuable lesson concerning following the Lord’s plan. As we begin, it is important that we distinguish between the will of God and the plan of God. The will of God is that which God desires for everyone. For example: it is God’s…
After the Holy Spirit came at Pentecost, those that observed what was happening began to question what was going on. Some even mocked those who were filled with Spirit and made fun of them and claimed that they must be drunk with wine. In response to the mocking and questions, Peter stands up and begins…
What makes a family? There is a great emphasis put on family relationships in the scriptures. But, what exactly is a family and what makes a family? As we study the life of Jacob in the book of Genesis we see several building blocks of a family. Marriage (29:1-30). All families must begin with a…
The Jewish people had four annual feasts. There was the feast of Passover, the feast of unleavened bread, the feast of first fruits, and the feast of Pentecost. The feast of Pentecost came fifty days after the feast of first fruits. Each of these feasts were prophetic in nature. Throughout the years before Christ…
On the day of Pentecost, on the day when the Holy Ghost came down; they were all with one accord and in one place. In this one verse of scripture we see a testimony to the importance of the local church. The local church is a body of baptized believers in the Lord Jesus who…
The study of Scripture may at times be confusing. In the case of Acts 1:12-26, there are several different views. It is important that as we study such difficult passages that we compare scripture with scripture and that we rely upon the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The main issue here is the choosing of…
Jesus has been to the cross, He has rose from the grave; now we find Him giving some final instructions and words of encouragement to the disciples as He ascends into Heaven. This passage is very relevant for us today and provides great encouragement for us just as it did the disciples. The Great Question…
Pastor Chris Noland 