Casting Crowns Before The Throne

There’s a reason Revelation is the last book of the Bible and the last book which was likely written by the inspired authors other than perhaps the gospel of John.  It’s a book which was “signified” (Revelation 1:1), meaning that it’s chock full of symbolism and figurative language which confound many.  Yet I propose the key to understanding Revelation is by turning first and foremost to the rest of the Bible for clues as to what these symbols mean.  I’ve found that doing so makes Revelation not only relevant to both its original readers in the church two thousand years ago, but also relevant to my own spiritual walk and thus very encouraging.… Read More Casting Crowns Before The Throne

Contending for the Faith

Jude had wanted to write to these Christians about the salvation from God which had been given to them, but the Holy Spirit inspired him to write about a different topic (2 Peter 1:19-21): contending for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints (v. 3).  The reason for this was due to ungodly people who promoted heinous doctrines (v. 4).  They had crept in “unnoticed,” even after the many warnings given by Jesus, Peter and Paul (Matthew 7:13-27; Acts 20:29-30; 2 Peter 2:1-22).  The same tragedy happens today, which is why God’s call to “contend for the faith” is just as relevant now as it was then.… Read More Contending for the Faith