In a nighttime conversation with a religious leader recorded in John 3:1-21, Jesus used an expression that has found its way into popular culture, being "born again." Jesus emphasized not merely a new start but a total transformation performed by God. In other words, we all need something that only God can give. At the same time, Jesus predicted that he would be lifted up on the cross so that anyone who believed in him would have eternal life. Although we cannot bring about our own new birth, we must look to Christ in faith and live. (Here are Larry's complete sermon notes.)
God has always been with his people, in various ways and temporarily in Old Testament times and later and permanently in human flesh.
In Revelation 2:18-29, Jesus sent the longest letter to the church in the least important city, Thyatira, perhaps because its situation was complicated. In...
If we have died and risen with Christ, once we have taken off the filthy rags of the old life, it is time to...