In Luke 6:22-23 and 26, part of what we call “The King’s Sermon,” Jesus delivers a powerful message about the reality of persecution for His followers. This final beatitude and its corresponding woe address the cost of discipleship in a world that often rejects Christ. Through vivid contrasts, Jesus prepares His disciples—and us—for the inevitable hostility that comes with bearing His name, while promising a heavenly reward that far outweighs earthly trials.

In the heart of Jesus’ teaching in Luke 6:20-21 and 24-25, part of what we call “The King’s Sermon,” lies a profound contrast between two kinds of people: those who are blessed and those who face woe. This passage, often known as the Beatitudes and Woes, challenges our worldly notions of success and happiness. Jesus speaks directly to His disciples, urging them to see beyond temporary circumstances and embrace the eternal realities of God’s kingdom. His words resonate as much today as they did 2,000 years ago, offering hope to the struggling and a warning to the self-satisfied.

The Sermon on the Mount, or as I call it, “The King’s Sermon,” stands as one of Jesus’ most profound teachings, recorded in Luke 6:17-49 and Matthew 5-7. Often described as the pinnacle of Christian ethics, this sermon is majestic in its simplicity, ambition, and calling. It’s not just a set of moral guidelines but a manifesto for what it means to live as a citizen of Christ’s kingdom. As we embark on exploring this sermon, let’s consider its weight, its context, and its transformative power for our lives today.

Work is a fundamental part of human life, woven into the fabric of our daily existence. Whether we’re clocking into a 9-to-5 job, running a business, managing a household, or studying as a full-time student, work shapes much of our time and identity. In Ephesians 6:5-9, the Apostle Paul offers timeless guidance on how Christians should approach work, emphasizing that our labor is not just a means to a paycheck but an opportunity to honor God.

Parenting is one of life’s most profound responsibilities, and Scripture offers timeless guidance for navigating its challenges. In Ephesians 6:4, Paul provides a concise yet powerful directive for parents: “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”

In a world overflowing with parenting advice—over 80,000 books on Amazon, countless podcasts, blogs, and articles—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Each resource offers its own take on the “ultimate goal” of parenting, from fostering self-esteem to balancing discipline and play. Yet, amidst this noise, the Bible provides clear, timeless guidance. Ephesians 6:1-3 speaks directly to children, calling them to obey and honor their parents, a command rooted in God’s design for flourishing relationships.

The title “How to Kill a Church” may sound alarming, but it serves as a sobering reminder of the subtle ways a church can lose its vitality. Drawing from Ephesians 6:21-24 and Revelation 2:1-7, we uncover three critical missteps that can lead to a church’s demise: failing to prize others, neglecting to protect truth, and abandoning love for Jesus.

In a world swirling with competing voices and ideas, how do we discern truth from deception? The Apostle Paul’s words in 1 Timothy 4:1-5 offer timeless wisdom for navigating this challenge. Writing to his young protégé Timothy, Paul addresses the reality of false teaching within the church and equips believers to stand firm. His message is as relevant today as it was in the first century, reminding us that truth is worth defending—and that deception often comes with a sinister source.

Imagine standing at the edge of the Devil’s Pool in Zimbabwe, a natural infinity pool perched atop Victoria Falls. Thrill-seekers swim to the brink of a 300-foot drop, trusting a rock barrier and tour guides to keep them safe. No one’s died there yet, they say—but would you risk being the first? False teaching in the church is eerily similar: it promises excitement or safety, yet flirts with disaster. In 1 Timothy 1:8-11, Paul warns Timothy—and us—about this danger, urging discernment to spot false teachers before they lead us astray.

In Luke 20:1-8, Jesus faces a direct challenge from the religious leaders. After He cleanses the temple and teaches with authority, they ask, “By what authority are you doing these things? Who gave you this authority?” Instead of answering them directly, Jesus turns the question back on them: “Was the baptism of John from heaven or from men?” (Luke 20:4). This question exposes their refusal to recognize Jesus' divine authority—and it invites us to ask the same question: Who has authority in our lives?

True Manhood: The Call to Work and Lead

In today’s world, there’s a lot of confusion surrounding gender roles, especially when it comes to men and women’s roles in the home and church. Our culture often promotes the idea that men and women are the same, even pushing the notion that women might do some things better than men. However, this mindset doesn’t align with the truth found in the Bible. The Scriptures present distinct roles for men and women, particularly in two key areas: work and leadership.

In today’s world, discussions about gender roles are increasingly complex and divisive. The confusion surrounding gender identity and the roles of men and women in society have created challenges, particularly in the church and family dynamics. To navigate these concerns, it’s essential to return to the biblical foundation for understanding gender roles. In this post, we will explore how Scripture reveals the original design for men and women, how sin distorted that design, and how hope is restored through the gospel of Jesus Christ.

In one of the most poignant moments recorded in Scripture, we find Jesus weeping over Jerusalem. Not tears of joy, but tears of profound sorrow. As He approaches the magnificent city during His triumphal entry, while crowds cheer and wave palm branches, the Savior's heart breaks for what He sees.

Throughout history, people have tried to claim the blessings of God while rejecting His authority. We love the idea of a kingdom filled with peace, joy, and abundance, but we resist the King who calls us to surrender. Jesus addressed this very issue in His parable of the wicked tenants (Luke 20:9-18). In this striking story, He exposed the religious leaders' rejection of God’s rule and issued a warning that still speaks to us today.