“…whatever you bind on earth…” (18:18) We’re continuing our week-long discussion on relationships from Matthew 18. In verse 18, Jesus begins to centre in on the real heart of this discussion. Jesus is about to connect the earthly church principles with the heavenly Father’s oversight. A few weeks ago, we read that Jesus offered these very same…
“If they still refuse…” (Matthew 18:17) Photo Credit: Talk to the hand via photopin This week we’ve discussed relationships, specifically how they relate to Matthew 18. Feel free to scroll to the bottom of this post to read earlier posts. Verse 17 should not be taken lightly. We read, “If they still refuse…” (18:17) Unfortunately,…
And Hopefully, How It Ends. It begins in Matthew 18:15. This verse opens up with, “If your brother or sister sins…” After reading those words, you may be assuming that this is going to be a finger-pointing post. Perhaps, you’ve already thought to yourself, “Here we go. Another pastor writing an article of forced conviction.“ I assure you, this is…
Changing the Way We Read Matthew 18. I did a bit of Googling last week. You see, our church is going through a series in the Gospel of Matthew. This past Sunday, we hit Matthew 18. So I did what any good pastor would do; I Googled! I Googled “Matthew 18“. First off, I found…
10 Questions for Reflection From Mt. 17 The Transfiguration: Matthew 17:1-9 This week, we’ve been working through a post-series on Matthew 17:1-9. Today, we end this series with some questions for personal or group reflection. Scroll to the bottom of this post to read previous posts. 10 Questions for Reflection 1. What were your initial thoughts, after…
The Mountaintop Descent (Mt. 17:7-9) This week, we’ve been working through a post-series on Matthew 17:1-9. Which mountaintop is Christ calling us to climb? Despite the fear and anxiety, is the view from the mountaintop worth it? Are we ready for the experience He’s prepared for us? “Don’t be afraid.” (17:7) After experiencing the transfiguration at the…
The Mountaintop Experience: (Mt. 17:2-6) Yesterday, I introduced this week’s post-series on Matthew 17:1-9. Which mountaintop is Christ calling us to climb? Despite the fear and anxiety, is the view from the mountaintop worth it? Are we ready for the experience He’s prepared for us? Click HERE to read “Part 1 – The Ascent“. “…he…
“I’ve been to the mountaintop!“ Photo Credit: MLK Memorial via photopin “Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But I’m not concerned about that now. I just want to do God’s will. And He’s allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I’ve looked over. And I’ve…
The Keys found in Matthew 16. This has been our Scriptural focus throughout this week. The following is a list of study questions for personal or small group study, based on this week’s posts. Click HERE to read Matthew 16:13-23. Scroll to the bottom of this post, to read the associated posts. 10 Study Questions…
3 Keys of Application Taken From the Keys of the Kingdom This week, we’ve been talking about keys. In particular, “the keys to the kingdom of heaven” from Matthew 16. If you’re just checking in, click HERE to read “Would You Share the Keys to Your Kingdom?“ or click HERE to read “Exploring the Keys to…
3 Important Truths: This week, we’re discussing this Biblical concept. What did it mean for the disciple, Peter? What did it mean for the rest of the disciples? And what does it mean for us? To begin, I suggest reading through Matthew 16. After you’ve read the passage, we’ll start by getting a little context on…
Take a look at your keys. As you look at each key, think about what each of those keys locks or unlocks. Why do you have each of those keys? Why are they important to you? Do you have plain key ring or a novelty key chain? What does your set of keys say about…