John, part of the Inner Circle

Jesus has called his twelve disciples, however of these men he has a closer, more intimate inner circle.  He has three with whom he is very close. These men often go with him when the other men do not.  Why these men? Scripture doesn’t tell us. Maybe they hit it off better than the others.  We have some friends we […]

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Peter, His Legacy

This is our final session with Peter and an eyewitness to the life, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus. Last week, we took a look at the transfiguration and Pentecost.  Today, let’s take a few more looks at Peter’s ministry. Acts 12 tells us, “Peter, therefore, was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God […]

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Peter, Fishers of Men

Last time, we took a look at Peter’s call to follow Jesus and how his name was changed from Simon. Today, let’s take a look at Peter being called to be a fisher of men. Luke 5:4-11 tells the story where Peter is fishing and Jesus tells him he will become fishers of men. So, let’s take a look at […]

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Serving Others

  When we are hurting, it is so easy to get caught up in our own web of pity, despair, selfishness and one track thinking. However, one of the best ways to get out of our own funk, is to reach out and help others.  When we help others, we end up feeling better about ourselves and even at times […]

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Hall of Faith: John, the Faithful

In looking at those in the New Testament who belong in the Hall of Faith, one would think of the Apostle John. In the Gospel of John, he is referred to as the “Beloved disciple” or the “disciple whom Jesus loved”. He is first introduced in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke as “ he saw other two brethren, James […]

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Hall of Faith: Mary Magdalene, Served Jesus

In discussing who in the New Testament deserves to be listed in the Hall of Faith, Mary Magdalene seems a very logical choice. Other than Mary, the Mother of Jesus, Mary Magdalene is listed among the women who were the most faithful followers of Jesus. Her name derives from Luke 8:2 which says “Mary, called Magdalene.” The town of Magdala […]

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Gifts of the Spirit: Miracles and Healing

Working of Miracles—1 Corinthians 12:28 says “then miracles”.  When we think of miracles the first miracles that usually come to mind are those of Jesus.  These miracles proved his power and that He was the son of God.  However, other miracles were also performed throughout the Bible such as Elijah and Elisha raising from the dead, Daniel in the lions […]

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Behind the Hymn: The Way of the Cross Leads Home

The Way of the Cross Leads Home was written by Jessie B. Pounds. Jessie Hunter Brown was born on August 31, 1861 in Hiam, Ohio.  She is described as having been a “poorly” child in health and was educated at home. At age 15, she began submitting articles to Cleveland newspapers and various religious publications. She married John Pounds, a pastor of […]

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Mary Magdalene: Discovered the Tomb Empty

We left Mary Magdalene at the crucifixion.  Jesus is dead and they have taken his body to the grave, but the Sabbath was beginning and the women could not prepare his body.  So, they go home to follow the Jewish customs of the day.  We’re not told where they were, but more than likely they were together. John 20:1 tells […]

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Mary Magdalene: Witness to the Crucifixion

The next mention we have of Mary Magdalene after Jesus heals her, is of her presence at the crucifixion. Luke 23:49 says, “”women who had followed him from Galilee” standing at a distance”, but does not mentioned these women by name.  However, the other three gospels do mention these women and among them is Mary Magdalene. Matthew 27:56, says, “Among them […]

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Mary Continued to Pray

Lift Your Needs to the Heavens

We last saw Mary at the crucifixion of Jesus.   She is mentioned one more time in scripture after this. Jesus has died on the cross, been sealed in the tomb, and Easter Sunday has occurred.  The stone was rolled back to reveal that Jesus was alive. Now he has walked with his disciples for 40 days and ascended into heaven.  […]

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