David now works at a palace where the king – Saul – wants him dead. In his corner David has other members of the royal family, seeking to protect him. But Saul in his paranoia about David, schemes secret ways
The robe of humility
Something remarkable occurs after David’s victory over Goliath. Jonathan, whose place as prince regent has been lost by his father’s disobedience, gives loving loyalty to David, the man who has displaced him. In a stunning demonstration of humility, Jonathan places
To do
2.1 We believe that God created man in His own image, thus giving him a unique position and dignity with the created universe. All human beings share equally in this dignity. God created man to know and love Him, and
We believe in God
1.1 We believe in one living and true God. He is infinite in His power, glory and wisdom, and perfect in His holiness, justice and love. He alone is to be worshipped and obeyed. Photo by Jon Tyson on Unsplash
Foolish dreams, genuine hope
Samuel is making his retirement-from-leadership speech as the nation moves to Saul as ruler. Once more he warns the people not to try and save themselves, but look up to the Lord. They have placed way too much hope in
Shrinking the camel
To the dismay of his disciples, Jesus has, apparently, driven a zealous, humble and wealthy man away by asking too much of him. If they lose men like this, then there’s no hope for anyone else, including them who have
You ask too much!
Though his disciples know Jesus is God’s anointed king, they do not understand the implications. God’s kingdom is built by God’s power, not human strength. So Jesus must die, trusting his father to raise him. The disciples, however, cannot see
Blind spot
Philemon 10-14. Though Paul’s friend has been a great help to other Christians, Paul knows he could easily react badly to his ‘useless’ returning slave. So the apostle writes to impress upon his friend just how much Christ has changed
Trust and respect
Philemon 7-10. Paul’s prayer was for his friend’s love to be applied more widely. Now he turns to what that means in practice: welcoming back his slave not with harsh anger but as a Christian brother. However, Paul doesn’t command
Do good to all
Philemon 4-6. After his greeting, Paul next mentions his prayers for the recipient. In his words we hear indications of the way he will write in the rest of the letter. He thanks God for his friend’s faith and the