From One Slave to Another, Part 2
The Apostle Paul wrote a letter to a brother named Titus and encouraged him to serve Christ with enthusiasm and dedication regardless of circumstances. But in that letter he also made the profound confession that although he considered himself a free man socially and politically, he also considered himself a slave. Why is that? Find out in this message, "From One Slave to Another."
From One Slave to Another, Part 1
The Apostle Paul wrote a letter to a brother named Titus and encouraged him to serve Christ with enthusiasm and dedication regardless of circumstances. But in that letter he also made the profound confession that although he considered himself a free man socially and politically, he also considered himself a slave. Why is that? Find out in this message, "From One Slave to Another."
Dust to Dust
It's been said that in this life there are two certainties: death and taxes. In his journal, King Solomon agrees with the former. Death is coming, he opines, whether you're a prince, pauper, or porcupine. But without the spiritual revelation of an eternal perspective, this truth can lead to despair. When we look around--under the sun--, we do observe impending death for all living things. Keeping our eyes on the Creator of the sun, however, helps us make the most of our present earthly purpose and look forward to our ultimate destination.
When Life Isn't Fair
Does it ever feel like the liars, cheaters, and short-cut-takers always seem to get ahead? In Ecclesiastes, King Solomon made the same observation. He laments that evil people seem to win, but he also concludes that God will be the final judge of all deeds done on earth. Yes, judgement is coming, and there are just two possible outcomes: Guilty or Pardoned. Pay the penalty of eternal wrath--or settle out of court by accepting the work of Jesus as your merciful Advocate.
Wired for Eternity
People throughout history in every culture have held the belief of eternal life. Because we are made in God's image, we are designed with this innate sense of eternity. It's why we are ultimately dissatisfied with the things of this life. In these verses, we are reminded of God's eternal sovereignty as He writes the story of our lives--amid the challenging chapters and the beautiful ones. And through it all, God desires us maintain an eternal perspective and find joy.
Living the Dash
Here, King Solomon interrupts his journal with a poem that may be familiar to some of us. By contrasting opposite experiences of life's journey, he asserts that every aspect and activity is God-designed and purposeful. Between our birth and death, there will be times to dance and mourn, to plant and reap, to gain and to lose. But peace will be woven through it all only when we live each day with the perspective of the Divine security we have through Jesus Christ.
Question and Answer Program No. 72
Stephen and Scott discuss questions phoned in by listeners. Please note that there is NO transcript available for this program.
Finding Meaning on Monday Morning
Man's pursuit of the dream job has not changed since the days of King Solomon. Today people continue to look for that perfect, fulfilling, life-affirming position--but most of us find only frustration. In these verses, Solomon acknowledges that life--and our job, whatever it may be--is a gift from God. Life under the sun is always enriched with a focus on God. So, whether your work is writing computer code, building houses, or changing diapers, you will only find satisfaction when you work to bring glory to God (Colossians 3:23-24).
Rising Above the Tide
As these verses begin, Solomon seems to be taking to positive turn in his journal when he says that living wisely is better than foolishness. But then he falls into the previous pattern, claiming, "It doesn't really matter, because we're all going to die--and be forgotten--anyway." And he's mad about it. This will be our truth as well--unless we rise above it by embracing the Way, the Truth, and the Life--Jesus Christ--Who gives our lives meaning, purpose, and joy. Eternally.
Let the Good Times Roll
King Solomon discovered that knowledge and wisdom didn't satisfy him or bring meaning to his life. So, he decided to pursue pleasure and entertainment; and when that didn't work, he turned to alcohol. Then, he turned to various obsessions and possessions. With it all--but without God--he was left empty time after time. Without God, these pursuits will only leave us bitter, bondage, and discontentment. We will all be restless until we find our rest in the Lord.