But when I saw that they were deviating from the truth of the gospel, I told Cephas in front of everyone, “If you, who are a Jew, live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, how can you compel Gentiles to live like Jews?” (Gal. 2:14). Peter (AKA Cephas)…. It’s always Peter, right? All…
Tag: Spirituality
Laying Down and Taking Up
Sketch by Patrick Murphy This is why the Father loves Me, because I am laying down My life so I may take it up again. No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down on My own. I have the right to lay it down, and I have the right to take it…
The Holy Pigeon
Years ago, when I read about the Holy Spirit descending on Jesus during His baptism, I imagined it like this: A sparkling white dove wreathed in sunbeams came down through the clouds at escalator speed, wings flashing up and down in slow motion. It was a glorious, calendar-worthy, photo-op moment. All of that changed one…
Immor(t)ality
Drawing by Patrick Murphy Immor (ality) (tality) The difference is the (t) (cross)
I Own You!
Being owned has negative connotations: Think slavery. Or how often do TV characters intimidate someone by shouting, “I OWN YOU!” People playing sports may shout this as well when they want to rile their opponents. In our minds, being owned is humiliating; it completely devalues a person. All of this flitted through my mind recently as…
One Is All
I am one with God in Christ, and this is all that is required of me.
Sea Change
The Lord has been speaking to me about resting. Just before Thanksgiving, I noticed my motivation for writing, working on music, and for other pursuits evaporated. Since my energies were diverted to holiday plans and family I didn’t think much of it. But as it became February, March, and then April, I began to wonder…
Interpretive Hypocrisy
At a men’s group this morning, we discussed how to interpret the Bible. Our conversation reminded me of a booklet I wrote: “This Is What Is Written: What the Scriptures Say about Their Interpretation.” Below is the introduction: For most Christians, how to interpret the scriptures is central to their beliefs. After all, the way someone interprets…
Out of my sight
Originally posted on My utmost 4 His garbage can :
It is right for us to make so much of the finished work of Christ. It is no exaggeration to say that the death and resurrection was more profound than even the creation of this natural realm. Because His appearing is the goal and fulfillment of creation.…
Yard Sale Theology
My wife co-ran a yard sale recently. One item for sale was a small decorative cross. My wife planned to sell it for 25 cents. Before she could price it she noticed a man looking at it. Subtlely, he removed a 50 cent sticker from a neighboring item and placed it on the cross. My…
The Voice of One 