In Leviticus 12–15 we have a series of law relating to defilement and cleansing. At a surface level these laws seem odd to the modern reader. Yet upon digger we discover they reveal something about God’s character as well as pointing us to the good news of Jesus.
When it comes to the topic of Sex there are probably two approaches that we see. Some, even Christians, feel embarrassed by the topic and so we avoid it altogether. At the other end, through TV, social media, internet, and advertising sex seems to be everywhere.
As Christians how should we think about this topic? How does God speak about this this topic?
Mal explores this topic from the neglected book of Song of Songs as we explore God's wisdom on this important area of life.
In Leviticus 8–10 we have the inauguration of God’s initiated worship structure. The opening of the tabernacle was a momentous moment in the history of God’s people. More than just a big day, however, the worship structure is designed to reveal something about the character of God, as well as highlight our need for a mediator, a priest, to stand on our behalf before a holy God.
In the busyness of everyday life there are many moments we live unaware of God’s presence. Sadly there are many times in life we choose to actively ignore God. Whether intentional or unintentional we often miss the mark in our relationship with God through sin. This leads to either hiding from God, or feeling so ashamed that we dare not come to God. In Leviticus 4 we discover the grace of God who invites sinners to a relationship with him. Leviticus 4 reminds us that we come to God on his terms. We need forgiveness and to be cleansed, and he does this the shedding of innocent blood. In this image we have a picture of an even greater reality found in Jesus.
According to the Apostle Paul, ‘All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness’ (2 Tim 3:16). While most of us would agree with that, there are some parts that are more difficult to see the usefulness and relevance of. The book of Leviticus would have to be near the top of those books which baffle us. Food laws, sacrifices, and other regulations often feel disconnected from our world. In spite of this, understand the context and framework of Leviticus provides the basis not only for knowing God’s holy character more deeply, but also understanding the importance of Jesus’s sacrifice.
Central to Christianity is the resurrection of Jesus. Without the resurrection of Jesus there is no ‘Gospel’ (good news) message. In this section of John, Jesus reveals his power, as well as his love, as he raises Lazarus back to life. His actions are not simply for Lazarus, however, they point to a future resurrection that all of God’s people will participate in.
Many people perceive that if there is a God that he must be indifferent or impotent to help us in the midst of our need. In this account in Mark 5, however, we get a picture of a God who deeply cares for us in the midst of our grief and loss. Jesus shows his authority over death and disease while at the same time demonstrating a tenderness for those struggling with the brokenness of the world.
In his parables Jesus calls upon the listeners to weigh up their response to him. Will we respond to Jesus in genuine faith, or trust in ourselves. In this section of Mark, we get another glimpse into the power and authority of Jesus as he demonstrates his power over creation. The disciples’ faith is tested, and found weak. In this miracle, Jesus reminds us why we can trust him. Because is powerful, wise, and kind.
In the early ministry of Jesus many people responded to his miracles, teaching, and demonstrations of power. Not all people, however, were embracing Jesus’s message of repentance, in fact many were now turning on Jesus. In Mark 4, Jesus teaches by way of parable, how different hearts respond to his truth.
In life there are many different associations, groups, clubs that we might identify with. Entrance into such societies is often based on status, who you know, or skill in ability. But how does one enter God’s community, his family? In this account in Mark 3, Jesus gives insight into who it is that is welcomed into God’s family, and how their entrance is achieved.
One of the most confronting yet compelling character traits of Jesus is his grace toward broken people. In Mark 2:13–17, Jesus extends grace to the most unlikely of people and in doing so reveals his surprising mission to the world. Jesus comes seeking imperfect, broken, and those traditionally viewed as outsider to be part of his family.
If you’ve ever been in a dire situation you know the feel of desperation. In our moments of deep need and uncertainty we often appropriately find consolation in running to Jesus. In this account in Mark 2:1–12 some individuals bring their desperate friend to meet Jesus. While they come with the hope of seeing their friend healed, their friend receives something far greater, he receives the forgiveness of God. In this account we are again reminded of the authority of Jesus, his purpose in coming, and are reminded of our need to respond to him in faith.
Jesus of Nazareth is the most compelling person in all of history. His influence continues to shape the world as over a billion people in the world identify with him in some form or another. But who was this man? What did he do? Why does he continue to exercise influence on the world 2,000 years after his birth? In Mark 1:1–13, we get an insight into who Jesus is from God’s angle. In this introduction the curtains are pulled back, and we are given a divine assessment of both Jesus’s character, as well as a hint toward his mission on earth.
Many people go through life with little or no direction. For many it feels like they are navigating the world in the dark. No knowing where they are going, or what direction to take. In John 9, Jesus heals a man who literally was going through life blind. Lacking physical vision, this man had a difficult life. In this context, however, Jesus brings light and clarity to this man and ultimately helps him not only see physically, but Jesus reveals himself so the blind man can see God. This chapter also warns of the reality that one can physically see Jesus, yet be blind spiritually.
We live in a world full of people who are unseen and injured by the brokenness of the world. People are lonely, hurting, feeling forgotten, and the natural question is, ‘does anyone care?’ We might even ask, ‘Does God care?’ In John 4 we have Jesus’ encounter with a vulnerable woman and we get a glimpse into God’s heart for the marginalised.
One of the great mysteries of life for many of us is discerning God’s plans for our lives. What should I do for work? Should I get married? Where should I live? In all of these decisions, how do we know what God wants? In this message we explore practical ways in which we can know and discern God’s will for our lives.
Christmas gifts are sometimes good, sometimes bad, but rarely long-lasting. God’s gift at Christmas is that which truly satisfies.
A large part of life involves waiting. We wait for appointments. We wait for public transport. We wait for text messages and emails. Some of us wait well, for others of us, however, waiting produces anxiety and concern. As God’s people, we wait patiently for the day of the Lord when he will with finality makes all things news as he returns to bring both judgment as well as salvation. But that time hasn’t come yet. We still wait. But how do we wait well? How do we live in light of the future certain coming day of the Lord? 1 Thessalonians 5:1–11 helps us to think through how we live now, in light of the not yet.
Death is something that everyone of us will face head on. Since Adam’s fall from grace in the garden of Eden, every person since have felt the pang of death. Even as followers of Jesus we still face the reality that death has sting. Death is an intrusion, a robber, a dark cloud that hovers over life. As followers of Jesus, however, there is hope beyond the grave. In 1 Thessalonians 4, Paul reveals truth about life beyond the grave. Paul looks forward in history to the return of Jesus and reveals truth that gives us hope, even in the midst of death.
