It is one thing to begin doing what is right—it is another to keep doing it. That is why Peter says to “add…to self-control perseverance” (2 Pet. 1:6). Perseverance (or “steadfastness,” ESV) means endurance. The Greek word carries the idea of “remaining under” or bearing up under pressure. It is the ability to stay faithful through trials and difficulties. This quality is…

The expression “for the remission of sins” was included with the saving blood of Jesus in the upper room. As He took the cup, He said, “This is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.” There would be no salvation for any individual if there was not the shedding of His blood. No…

The Bible shows in many ways the truth affirmed by Paul when he said, “For whatever things were written before were written for out learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scripture might have hope” (Rom. 15:4). He uses the word “before” to call our attention to the Old Testament scriptures, for it was almost three decades before there…

Once we know what is right, the next challenge is doing it consistently. That is why Peter says to “add…to knowledge self-control” (2 Pet. 1:6). Self-control is the ability to govern oneself—to master desires, impulses and appetites rather than be mastered by them. The Greek word carries the idea of “holding oneself in,” having power over one’s passions. It is strength that…

Comparing the translations is sometimes of great value in understanding the force of what God’s message involves. An illustration of this is to compare the two ways John 3:36 is brought into our language. The King James Version and the New King James version renders the words of Jesus in this way. “He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and…

Faith gives us conviction, and moral courage gives us the determination to do what is right. But without knowledge, we would not know what is right. That is why Peter says to “add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge” (2 Pet. 1:5). Knowledge, in this context, is not merely information—it is understanding God’s will. The Greek suggests a seeking, an inquiry,…

As soon as I was old enough to date, my father took me aside and gave me advice that I never forgot. He said, “Only date someone you think you could marry.” I’m sure many of us have heard something similar from their parents. And it’s no wonder because following this simple rule will set you up for great success in your…

If you have been paying attention to the news over the last few years, you have probably heard a good amount of talk about the “end times prophecies.” With the situation that has been happening in the middle east, especially in Gaza, many in the media have been pointing to verses ripped out of context in order to support their idea of…