Understanding
Jesus’ Triumphal Entry Into Jerusalem
The scene now shifts from a quiet dinner in Bethany to a noisy parade in Jerusalem (v. 12). Thousands of Galilean pilgrims had come to the Passover, and they had seen many of Jesus’ mighty works. These people were expec¬ting Christ to establish David’s kingdom. Waving palm branches …
Understanding God’s Word and Applying It
“In that day†refers to the time after Jesus’ resurrection and ascension. “In that day†the disciples would not be able to talk with Jesus directly. They would not be able to ask him for things since He would be with the Father in heaven (vv. 23, 28). Instead, they would be able to ask the Father …
Prayer For Knowledge And Power
Faith and love are two great words. Paul commends the Ephesian Christians for their “faith” in the Lord and their “love” for all the saints (v. 15). Because of their spiritual growth, both as individuals and as a church body he goes on to say how he was re …
The Supremacy of Love
Unlike many of the spiritual gifts, love will never be outmoded, unnecessary, or eliminated (v. 8). Someday, every prophecy recorded in the Bible will be fulfilled, but love will remain relevant. Someday, the gift of tongues will no longer be necessary (perhaps because we will all once again …
IllustrationBarron: Mother, I am Nine Feet Tall
A little boy came running to his mother, shouting, “Mother, I am nine feet tall.” His mother responded, “Don’t talk such nonsense.” “But,” he said, “I really am nine feet tall. I measured myself.” “Well, how did you measure yourself?&q …
IllustrationRecipe For Better Understanding
A recipe for better understanding is one cupful of listening when the person speaks: measure words carefully. Add a heaping teaspoonful of sympathetic consideration. Sift together to get a smooth batter for a consistent reply. Use generous amounts of long-suffering and forbea …
IllustrationMacArther’s Experience at West Point
The first section was studying the time-space relationship later formulated by Einstein as his Theory of Relativity. The text was complex and, being unable to comprehend it, I committed the pages to memory. When I was called upon to recite it, I solemnly reeled off almost word fo …