http://wordworship.org/ Eugene Smith eugene.smith@wordworship.org Eugene Smith Greetings! My name is Eugene Smith. Here you will find many message from God's Word preached over many years. I have served both as pastor and as an itinerant teacher throughout many countries. My burden is to see people grounded in the depths of the scriptures. This site is updated regularly. God bless and keep encouraged, Eugene Greetings! My name is Eugene Smith. Here you will find many message from God's Word preached over many years. I have served both as pastor and as an itinerant teacher throughout many countries. My burden is to see people grounded in the depths of the scriptures. This site is updated regularly. God bless and keep encouraged, Eugene en © 2026 Word & Worship Global Outreach LTD no Eugene Smith <p>We begin our study of the life of Joseph by asking what the goal of God is, and how he chooses and prepares his worker to accomplish his plans and purposes. The story of Joseph reveals how God's work is tied up in the worker he chooses. There are so many principles illustrated in this story that it serves as a clear paradigm by which we can understand how the Lord shapes his workers today.</p> <p>We begin our study of the life of Joseph by asking what the goal of God is, and how he chooses and prepares his worker to accomplish his plans and purposes. The story of Joseph reveals how God's work is tied up in the worker he chooses. There are so many principles illustrated in this story that it serves as a clear paradigm by which we can understand how the Lord shapes his workers today.</p> We begin our study of the life of Joseph by asking what the goal of God is, and how he chooses and prepares his worker to accomplish his plans and purposes. The story of Joseph reveals how God's work is tied up in the worker he chooses. There are so many principles illustrated in this story that it serves as a clear paradigm by which we can understand how the Lord shapes his workers today.

]]> 1861 1 5cce55bdfd16af2f62ad0366d5dfc92f no Eugene Smith <p>Growing up in Jacob's family was growing up in a dysfunctional setting. In the midst of this confusing setting, God gave two dreams to a young teenager, who had no idea of what they meant or their purpose. It would take 22 years for these to be worked out, in a manner far different than anything Joseph could have imagined. This lesson examines some of the methods God uses to shape his vessel for the fulfilment of his promises and purposes.</p> <p>Growing up in Jacob's family was growing up in a dysfunctional setting. In the midst of this confusing setting, God gave two dreams to a young teenager, who had no idea of what they meant or their purpose. It would take 22 years for these to be worked out, in a manner far different than anything Joseph could have imagined. This lesson examines some of the methods God uses to shape his vessel for the fulfilment of his promises and purposes.</p> Growing up in Jacob's family was growing up in a dysfunctional setting. In the midst of this confusing setting, God gave two dreams to a young teenager, who had no idea of what they meant or their purpose. It would take 22 years for these to be worked out, in a manner far different than anything Joseph could have imagined. This lesson examines some of the methods God uses to shape his vessel for the fulfilment of his promises and purposes.

]]> 2035 2 27f8863a54c99c37fab058fd51df5137 no Eugene Smith <p>After being sold once by his own brothers, Joseph is forced to another country where he will be sold a second time as a slave. He will serve ten years in Potiphar's house, a completely different environment than he had every known. What sustained him all these years? And how will he respond when after ten years of faith, of making right choices, he is rewarded by once again being thrown into another pit? Where is God? Isn't God a God of justice? Why does he allow this to happen?</p> <p>After being sold once by his own brothers, Joseph is forced to another country where he will be sold a second time as a slave. He will serve ten years in Potiphar's house, a completely different environment than he had every known. What sustained him all these years? And how will he respond when after ten years of faith, of making right choices, he is rewarded by once again being thrown into another pit? Where is God? Isn't God a God of justice? Why does he allow this to happen?</p> After being sold once by his own brothers, Joseph is forced to another country where he will be sold a second time as a slave. He will serve ten years in Potiphar's house, a completely different environment than he had every known. What sustained him all these years? And how will he respond when after ten years of faith, of making right choices, he is rewarded by once again being thrown into another pit? Where is God? Isn't God a God of justice? Why does he allow this to happen?

]]> 2801 3 33115606544bfe34b53f8f9a8686cbef no Eugene Smith <p>The story of Joseph can be told by observing the many garments that he wore. Each garment reflects a stage of his development as he progresses from promise to fulfilment. We are all familiar with the coat of many colours, but which ones come after that?</p> <p>The story of Joseph can be told by observing the many garments that he wore. Each garment reflects a stage of his development as he progresses from promise to fulfilment. We are all familiar with the coat of many colours, but which ones come after that?</p> The story of Joseph can be told by observing the many garments that he wore. Each garment reflects a stage of his development as he progresses from promise to fulfilment. We are all familiar with the coat of many colours, but which ones come after that?

]]> 1797 4 b4441110ee6a5fc9ae52b07e478f9405 no Eugene Smith <p>What were some of the deep lessons Joseph learned after being imprisoned for a crime he did not commit? Joseph had to make decisions that could turn the pain of iron in the soul into a pillar of steel. Many times, prison is where a great leader is born! Watch how Joseph is transformed and made to sit on the second highest throne in all of Egypt!</p> <p>What were some of the deep lessons Joseph learned after being imprisoned for a crime he did not commit? Joseph had to make decisions that could turn the pain of iron in the soul into a pillar of steel. Many times, prison is where a great leader is born! Watch how Joseph is transformed and made to sit on the second highest throne in all of Egypt!</p> What were some of the deep lessons Joseph learned after being imprisoned for a crime he did not commit? Joseph had to make decisions that could turn the pain of iron in the soul into a pillar of steel. Many times, prison is where a great leader is born! Watch how Joseph is transformed and made to sit on the second highest throne in all of Egypt!

]]> 2774 5 f283eb56a0ea0d43a974380c581f8272 no Eugene Smith <p>Now that Joseph has been vindicated and exalted, the story shifts to the coming of his brothers. His dreams move towards the next stage of fulfilment. When ten brothers went to Egypt and bow before the governor, why didn't Joseph reveal himself to them right there and then? Why did he speak roughly to them? Why did he throw them into prison? Was he vengeful towards them or did he have another goal in mind? Genesis 42 is full of emotional drama!</p> <p>Now that Joseph has been vindicated and exalted, the story shifts to the coming of his brothers. His dreams move towards the next stage of fulfilment. When ten brothers went to Egypt and bow before the governor, why didn't Joseph reveal himself to them right there and then? Why did he speak roughly to them? Why did he throw them into prison? Was he vengeful towards them or did he have another goal in mind? Genesis 42 is full of emotional drama!</p> Now that Joseph has been vindicated and exalted, the story shifts to the coming of his brothers. His dreams move towards the next stage of fulfilment. When ten brothers went to Egypt and bow before the governor, why didn't Joseph reveal himself to them right there and then? Why did he speak roughly to them? Why did he throw them into prison? Was he vengeful towards them or did he have another goal in mind? Genesis 42 is full of emotional drama!

]]> 2457 6 c8dafeec7072f97e2c25bed1d20d5c15 no Eugene Smith <p>Joseph's brothers need to return to Egypt to buy more food, but Jacob will not release Benjamin. Once they arrive, they are treated by the governor in a completely different manner than their first visit. Why were they treated to a banquet at his residence? What was behind the drama of hiding the governor's silver cup in Benjamin's sack? Why accusing the brothers of rewarding evil for the good they received? This story reveals the necessary work that must transpire in the human heart for broken families to be healed. Will Joseph's strategy work?</p> <p>Joseph's brothers need to return to Egypt to buy more food, but Jacob will not release Benjamin. Once they arrive, they are treated by the governor in a completely different manner than their first visit. Why were they treated to a banquet at his residence? What was behind the drama of hiding the governor's silver cup in Benjamin's sack? Why accusing the brothers of rewarding evil for the good they received? This story reveals the necessary work that must transpire in the human heart for broken families to be healed. Will Joseph's strategy work?</p> Joseph's brothers need to return to Egypt to buy more food, but Jacob will not release Benjamin. Once they arrive, they are treated by the governor in a completely different manner than their first visit. Why were they treated to a banquet at his residence? What was behind the drama of hiding the governor's silver cup in Benjamin's sack? Why accusing the brothers of rewarding evil for the good they received? This story reveals the necessary work that must transpire in the human heart for broken families to be healed. Will Joseph's strategy work?

]]> 2513 7 bca59fbc93a5ceb3b951c424ad0ec71b no Eugene Smith <p>The climax of the story is upon us. Joseph can no longer control his emotions. Is he ready for this moment? Are his brothers? Is Jacob? The entire story is about to take an unexpected twist. It has taken twenty-two years to build to this point. In a few minutes, all will be told, and the future dramatically changed! Genesis 45 is a powerful story of reconciliation and forgiveness.</p> <p>The climax of the story is upon us. Joseph can no longer control his emotions. Is he ready for this moment? Are his brothers? Is Jacob? The entire story is about to take an unexpected twist. It has taken twenty-two years to build to this point. In a few minutes, all will be told, and the future dramatically changed! Genesis 45 is a powerful story of reconciliation and forgiveness.</p> The climax of the story is upon us. Joseph can no longer control his emotions. Is he ready for this moment? Are his brothers? Is Jacob? The entire story is about to take an unexpected twist. It has taken twenty-two years to build to this point. In a few minutes, all will be told, and the future dramatically changed! Genesis 45 is a powerful story of reconciliation and forgiveness.

]]> 2004 8 c5b4b51d492f9b9a1b84527d867bdf5d no Eugene Smith <p>The life of Joseph serves as such a comprehensive picture of Jesus to come. The introduction of the baker and cupbearer reveals a massive amount of light about the nature of ministry, and much about the greater Joseph to come: Jesus!</p> <p>The life of Joseph serves as such a comprehensive picture of Jesus to come. The introduction of the baker and cupbearer reveals a massive amount of light about the nature of ministry, and much about the greater Joseph to come: Jesus!</p> The life of Joseph serves as such a comprehensive picture of Jesus to come. The introduction of the baker and cupbearer reveals a massive amount of light about the nature of ministry, and much about the greater Joseph to come: Jesus!

]]> 1556 9 b7fcc8f8a7e46edfa51ca1b7b3b73d85 no <p>The Lord is my Shepherd. I shall not want. Thus begins the first line of this well-known psalm that has comforted multitudes. Let's take some time to explore these well-known lines.</p> <p>The Lord is my Shepherd. I shall not want. Thus begins the first line of this well-known psalm that has comforted multitudes. Let's take some time to explore these well-known lines.</p> The Lord is my Shepherd. I shall not want. Thus begins the first line of this well-known psalm that has comforted multitudes. Let's take some time to explore these well-known lines.

]]> 955 10 416b65332c6efd36379b3e60a4ae053d no <p>Psalm 23 is perhaps the most well-known of all the psalms. Its imagery of the Lord as our shepherd has brought comfort to many a soul over the centuries. This introduction sets the context before we look at each of the lines within this beloved psalm. We will see how the hand of the Lord is with us from the beginning of our journey in green pastures, all the way to the end as we dwell in the house of the Lord. He is our shepherd and our host!</p> <p>Psalm 23 is perhaps the most well-known of all the psalms. Its imagery of the Lord as our shepherd has brought comfort to many a soul over the centuries. This introduction sets the context before we look at each of the lines within this beloved psalm. We will see how the hand of the Lord is with us from the beginning of our journey in green pastures, all the way to the end as we dwell in the house of the Lord. He is our shepherd and our host!</p> Psalm 23 is perhaps the most well-known of all the psalms. Its imagery of the Lord as our shepherd has brought comfort to many a soul over the centuries. This introduction sets the context before we look at each of the lines within this beloved psalm. We will see how the hand of the Lord is with us from the beginning of our journey in green pastures, all the way to the end as we dwell in the house of the Lord. He is our shepherd and our host!

]]> 1035 11 f8b8f14635db9f6b00aa02c30a23f175 no Eugene Smith <p>Once again, Mark mixes two stories together. This time two daughters from very different backgrounds combine to illustrate the dynamic of faith that encounters the kingdom of heaven.</p> <p>Once again, Mark mixes two stories together. This time two daughters from very different backgrounds combine to illustrate the dynamic of faith that encounters the kingdom of heaven.</p> Once again, Mark mixes two stories together. This time two daughters from very different backgrounds combine to illustrate the dynamic of faith that encounters the kingdom of heaven.

]]> 2084 12 0a0da656945be8f04817b6a4e86500fa no Eugene Smith <p>The last words of Peter in Mark's gospel are the truest words he ever spoke in that gospel. In attempting to suppress the truth about Jesus, he certainly did speak the truth about his relationship with him. What does it mean to know the Lord, and what does that mean for discipleship?</p> <p>The last words of Peter in Mark's gospel are the truest words he ever spoke in that gospel. In attempting to suppress the truth about Jesus, he certainly did speak the truth about his relationship with him. What does it mean to know the Lord, and what does that mean for discipleship?</p> The last words of Peter in Mark's gospel are the truest words he ever spoke in that gospel. In attempting to suppress the truth about Jesus, he certainly did speak the truth about his relationship with him. What does it mean to know the Lord, and what does that mean for discipleship?

]]> 1808 13 ad70a6aef9c5238063ebcc9d7a4d3c57 no Eugene Smith <p>Jesus preached that the kingdom of heaven had finally drawn near. The kingdom of Satan was put on notice! His kingdom was about to be plundered, and his captives set free. The mastery of Jesus over demons could not be denied. What does it mean for the church today to preach the kingdom of heaven?</p> <p>Jesus preached that the kingdom of heaven had finally drawn near. The kingdom of Satan was put on notice! His kingdom was about to be plundered, and his captives set free. The mastery of Jesus over demons could not be denied. What does it mean for the church today to preach the kingdom of heaven?</p> Jesus preached that the kingdom of heaven had finally drawn near. The kingdom of Satan was put on notice! His kingdom was about to be plundered, and his captives set free. The mastery of Jesus over demons could not be denied. What does it mean for the church today to preach the kingdom of heaven?

]]> 2156 14 21266f96a1a2bdc24d3a9b284f8eb8d9 no Eugene Smith <p>Mark mixes two stories together, another example of his 'sandwich' technique. The brutal story of the death of John the Baptist is inserted into the story of twelve disciples going on their first mission trip. Through the mixing of these stories, Mark reveals powerful truths about discipleship and mission. What is the sign of spiritual success, anyway?</p> <p>Mark mixes two stories together, another example of his 'sandwich' technique. The brutal story of the death of John the Baptist is inserted into the story of twelve disciples going on their first mission trip. Through the mixing of these stories, Mark reveals powerful truths about discipleship and mission. What is the sign of spiritual success, anyway?</p> Mark mixes two stories together, another example of his 'sandwich' technique. The brutal story of the death of John the Baptist is inserted into the story of twelve disciples going on their first mission trip. Through the mixing of these stories, Mark reveals powerful truths about discipleship and mission. What is the sign of spiritual success, anyway?

]]> 1801 15 72e8eaba7940c0e8f27b2e5376698298 no Eugene Smith <p>The family of Jesus thinks he is insane. Religious authorities from Jerusalem accuse him of being Satan incarnate. Does nobody, friends or enemies, understand who Jesus is? Mark mixes two contradictory stories together to teach his listeners about the identity of Jesus, and what it means to be his disciple.</p> <p>The family of Jesus thinks he is insane. Religious authorities from Jerusalem accuse him of being Satan incarnate. Does nobody, friends or enemies, understand who Jesus is? Mark mixes two contradictory stories together to teach his listeners about the identity of Jesus, and what it means to be his disciple.</p> The family of Jesus thinks he is insane. Religious authorities from Jerusalem accuse him of being Satan incarnate. Does nobody, friends or enemies, understand who Jesus is? Mark mixes two contradictory stories together to teach his listeners about the identity of Jesus, and what it means to be his disciple.

]]> 1755 16 1165a03ca735f4d214ac51233ecdf2bc no Eugene Smith <p>In Mark's gospel, nobody knows who Jesus is! Not the crowds that received His healing and heard Him teach, not the religious leaders that opposed Him, not even the disciples who were constantly with Him! How does Mark help his readers come to a knowledge of who Jesus is? What does it mean for you and me?</p> <p>In Mark's gospel, nobody knows who Jesus is! Not the crowds that received His healing and heard Him teach, not the religious leaders that opposed Him, not even the disciples who were constantly with Him! How does Mark help his readers come to a knowledge of who Jesus is? What does it mean for you and me?</p> In Mark's gospel, nobody knows who Jesus is! Not the crowds that received His healing and heard Him teach, not the religious leaders that opposed Him, not even the disciples who were constantly with Him! How does Mark help his readers come to a knowledge of who Jesus is? What does it mean for you and me?

]]> 3920 17 b8d6ecb90887dda41f841245c4149b1b no Eugene Smith <p>The Gospel of Mark gives an amazing picture of Jesus, not just as another anointed man, but nothing short of Almighty God! Knowing who Jesus is should act as a great boost in our faith, in our confidence to trust him. Listen to the majestic picture Mark draws for us in the contemplation of Jesus.</p> <p>The Gospel of Mark gives an amazing picture of Jesus, not just as another anointed man, but nothing short of Almighty God! Knowing who Jesus is should act as a great boost in our faith, in our confidence to trust him. Listen to the majestic picture Mark draws for us in the contemplation of Jesus.</p> The Gospel of Mark gives an amazing picture of Jesus, not just as another anointed man, but nothing short of Almighty God! Knowing who Jesus is should act as a great boost in our faith, in our confidence to trust him. Listen to the majestic picture Mark draws for us in the contemplation of Jesus.

]]> 3409 18 7d2278cc37e625a78fefe806a20b8b92 no Eugene Smith <p>When will God come? Isaiah prophesies that God would come and make himself known. According to Mark's 'Good News' story, God fulfilled that promise in the coming of Jesus. All through Mark's narrative, Jesus 'comes'! What happens when Jesus comes?</p> <p>When will God come? Isaiah prophesies that God would come and make himself known. According to Mark's 'Good News' story, God fulfilled that promise in the coming of Jesus. All through Mark's narrative, Jesus 'comes'! What happens when Jesus comes?</p> When will God come? Isaiah prophesies that God would come and make himself known. According to Mark's 'Good News' story, God fulfilled that promise in the coming of Jesus. All through Mark's narrative, Jesus 'comes'! What happens when Jesus comes?

]]> 1450 19 cd530eff269fd8082efdc70d3b290636 no Eugene Smith <p>The story of the healing of Bartimaeus concludes a section in Mark's gospel concerning discipleship. In these stories, who is the real blind person? How is it that Bartimaeus could 'see' what others could not? Why did Bartimaeus follow Jesus after he received his sight? This is a powerful story of what Jesus looks for in those who would follow him!</p> <p>The story of the healing of Bartimaeus concludes a section in Mark's gospel concerning discipleship. In these stories, who is the real blind person? How is it that Bartimaeus could 'see' what others could not? Why did Bartimaeus follow Jesus after he received his sight? This is a powerful story of what Jesus looks for in those who would follow him!</p> The story of the healing of Bartimaeus concludes a section in Mark's gospel concerning discipleship. In these stories, who is the real blind person? How is it that Bartimaeus could 'see' what others could not? Why did Bartimaeus follow Jesus after he received his sight? This is a powerful story of what Jesus looks for in those who would follow him!

]]> 3275 20 a0fa352de13191d742b06e25a6cf99ef no Eugene Smith <p>An unidentified woman breaks into a social gathering, and proceeds to do something that shocks all who are present. She breaks an alabaster box and pours out the entire contents of an extremely expensive perfume over the head of Jesus! What a waste of resources! Or was it? What is Jesus worth to you?</p> <p>An unidentified woman breaks into a social gathering, and proceeds to do something that shocks all who are present. She breaks an alabaster box and pours out the entire contents of an extremely expensive perfume over the head of Jesus! What a waste of resources! Or was it? What is Jesus worth to you?</p> An unidentified woman breaks into a social gathering, and proceeds to do something that shocks all who are present. She breaks an alabaster box and pours out the entire contents of an extremely expensive perfume over the head of Jesus! What a waste of resources! Or was it? What is Jesus worth to you?

]]> 3137 21 8af0068dc621844453a969cda422d8c5 no Eugene Smith <p>In the midst of great hypocrisy in the temple, Jesus rivets his attention on the actions of an unnoticed, destitute widow. He 'calls' his disciples over to illustrate to them that everything he had been trying to teach them about following him is perfectly exemplified by this woman's actions. Are they listening?</p> <p>In the midst of great hypocrisy in the temple, Jesus rivets his attention on the actions of an unnoticed, destitute widow. He 'calls' his disciples over to illustrate to them that everything he had been trying to teach them about following him is perfectly exemplified by this woman's actions. Are they listening?</p> In the midst of great hypocrisy in the temple, Jesus rivets his attention on the actions of an unnoticed, destitute widow. He 'calls' his disciples over to illustrate to them that everything he had been trying to teach them about following him is perfectly exemplified by this woman's actions. Are they listening?

]]> 3085 22 08ac1bb7b3d3c13067d2b3fa940f09d5 no Eugene Smith <p>Many will recognize this as the cry of a desperate father on behalf of his demonized son. Or does the gospel writer use the story of this distraught father as the perfect picture of the serious disease that inflicts the disciples? Which is the more serious issue, the demonized boy or the faithless disciples? To deal with the real issue, Jesus provides a graphic illustration of his death and resurrection as the basis for real faith!</p> <p>Many will recognize this as the cry of a desperate father on behalf of his demonized son. Or does the gospel writer use the story of this distraught father as the perfect picture of the serious disease that inflicts the disciples? Which is the more serious issue, the demonized boy or the faithless disciples? To deal with the real issue, Jesus provides a graphic illustration of his death and resurrection as the basis for real faith!</p> Many will recognize this as the cry of a desperate father on behalf of his demonized son. Or does the gospel writer use the story of this distraught father as the perfect picture of the serious disease that inflicts the disciples? Which is the more serious issue, the demonized boy or the faithless disciples? To deal with the real issue, Jesus provides a graphic illustration of his death and resurrection as the basis for real faith!

]]> 3472 23 895de8b4699904e2ac35e1cd7bebe8c1 no Eugene Smith <p>In the gospel of Mark, the disciples go from their best to their worst. Resisting the teaching of Jesus concerning the cross, they begin to fail at so many levels. However, Mark illustrates many positive examples of what discipleship should look like, but none of them are from the twelve disciples! Instead, there are many 'minor' figures that appear only once in the gospel, and each of these insignificant people show true discipleship as a follower and servant of Jesus! The kingdom of heaven will find the proper response in the most unlikely people from the most unsuspecting places! May we, as disciples, take their stories to heart!</p> <p>In the gospel of Mark, the disciples go from their best to their worst. Resisting the teaching of Jesus concerning the cross, they begin to fail at so many levels. However, Mark illustrates many positive examples of what discipleship should look like, but none of them are from the twelve disciples! Instead, there are many 'minor' figures that appear only once in the gospel, and each of these insignificant people show true discipleship as a follower and servant of Jesus! The kingdom of heaven will find the proper response in the most unlikely people from the most unsuspecting places! May we, as disciples, take their stories to heart!</p> In the gospel of Mark, the disciples go from their best to their worst. Resisting the teaching of Jesus concerning the cross, they begin to fail at so many levels. However, Mark illustrates many positive examples of what discipleship should look like, but none of them are from the twelve disciples! Instead, there are many 'minor' figures that appear only once in the gospel, and each of these insignificant people show true discipleship as a follower and servant of Jesus! The kingdom of heaven will find the proper response in the most unlikely people from the most unsuspecting places! May we, as disciples, take their stories to heart!

]]> 3353 24 12600527fb1b30e04ea0c69ec37aab82 no Eugene Smith <p>Jesus cleansed a leper instantly! Who had ever seen such a miracle? Disobeying Jesus, this leper immediately proclaims his testimony far and wide, so much so that the itinerant ministry of Jesus was forced to halt! Jesus, who was preaching throughout the synagogues of Galilee, is now forced to stay in the desolate places. The leper, who used to live in the desolate places, is now preaching in the towns! The two men have traded places. What is all this about? Did the leper really know who had healed him?</p> <p>Jesus cleansed a leper instantly! Who had ever seen such a miracle? Disobeying Jesus, this leper immediately proclaims his testimony far and wide, so much so that the itinerant ministry of Jesus was forced to halt! Jesus, who was preaching throughout the synagogues of Galilee, is now forced to stay in the desolate places. The leper, who used to live in the desolate places, is now preaching in the towns! The two men have traded places. What is all this about? Did the leper really know who had healed him?</p> Jesus cleansed a leper instantly! Who had ever seen such a miracle? Disobeying Jesus, this leper immediately proclaims his testimony far and wide, so much so that the itinerant ministry of Jesus was forced to halt! Jesus, who was preaching throughout the synagogues of Galilee, is now forced to stay in the desolate places. The leper, who used to live in the desolate places, is now preaching in the towns! The two men have traded places. What is all this about? Did the leper really know who had healed him?

]]> 3086 25 44c3d8632b75bb13c5003f94a07b7864 no Eugene Smith <p>The kingdom of heaven has arrived in the person and ministry of Jesus. It is open warfare! Perhaps this was never so evident when Jesus encounters a man filled with thousands of demons. But there is no contest! Listen to this amazing story of the power of the Word of Jesus Christ, the 'Divine Warrior' spoken of by Isaiah the prophet. Jesus came to destroy the word of darkness!</p> <p>The kingdom of heaven has arrived in the person and ministry of Jesus. It is open warfare! Perhaps this was never so evident when Jesus encounters a man filled with thousands of demons. But there is no contest! Listen to this amazing story of the power of the Word of Jesus Christ, the 'Divine Warrior' spoken of by Isaiah the prophet. Jesus came to destroy the word of darkness!</p> The kingdom of heaven has arrived in the person and ministry of Jesus. It is open warfare! Perhaps this was never so evident when Jesus encounters a man filled with thousands of demons. But there is no contest! Listen to this amazing story of the power of the Word of Jesus Christ, the 'Divine Warrior' spoken of by Isaiah the prophet. Jesus came to destroy the word of darkness!

]]> 3287 26 33a9cc0b34b459c588f49443f79469ab no Eugene Smith <p>The religious authorities waged war against Jesus. Many of these battles were fought over the issue of the Sabbath. How did Jesus handle the day when they put a man with a withered hand in the synagogue? Would Jesus heal on the Sabbath? What is the purpose of the Sabbath and the law? Why did Jesus command this poor man to 'stretch forth his hand'? This story teaches us a powerful lesson of the nature and purpose of the law, the Sabbath, and what Jesus came to do!</p> <p>The religious authorities waged war against Jesus. Many of these battles were fought over the issue of the Sabbath. How did Jesus handle the day when they put a man with a withered hand in the synagogue? Would Jesus heal on the Sabbath? What is the purpose of the Sabbath and the law? Why did Jesus command this poor man to 'stretch forth his hand'? This story teaches us a powerful lesson of the nature and purpose of the law, the Sabbath, and what Jesus came to do!</p> The religious authorities waged war against Jesus. Many of these battles were fought over the issue of the Sabbath. How did Jesus handle the day when they put a man with a withered hand in the synagogue? Would Jesus heal on the Sabbath? What is the purpose of the Sabbath and the law? Why did Jesus command this poor man to 'stretch forth his hand'? This story teaches us a powerful lesson of the nature and purpose of the law, the Sabbath, and what Jesus came to do!

]]> 3086 27 4a535d10fe5ad6e16869552005d2697e no Eugene Smith <p>Fear is a debilitating emotion. There are various degrees of fear, experienced by bot saints and sinners alike. The Bible command is 'Fear not.' Can it possibly be that simple? What clues do scripture give us to help us face this paralyzing emotion? Let us see what the men of God found within scripture did, and how it direct us to overcoming!</p> <p>Fear is a debilitating emotion. There are various degrees of fear, experienced by bot saints and sinners alike. The Bible command is 'Fear not.' Can it possibly be that simple? What clues do scripture give us to help us face this paralyzing emotion? Let us see what the men of God found within scripture did, and how it direct us to overcoming!</p> Fear is a debilitating emotion. There are various degrees of fear, experienced by bot saints and sinners alike. The Bible command is 'Fear not.' Can it possibly be that simple? What clues do scripture give us to help us face this paralyzing emotion? Let us see what the men of God found within scripture did, and how it direct us to overcoming!

]]> 2958 28 7be33f427d945d838d05047c562bc508 no Eugene Smith <p>Despair is a step beyond, regret, sadness and depression. it is a real battle for many people. Many are surprised that this negative emotion is abundantly portrayed in the scripture. How does the Bible tell us to deal with this overwhelming sense of darkness? Is it possible to emerge from the deep darkness of despair to the bright glory of the sun? Can mourning be turned into dancing? Let us see how the saints of old cried out to God to emerge into his provision!</p> <p>Despair is a step beyond, regret, sadness and depression. it is a real battle for many people. Many are surprised that this negative emotion is abundantly portrayed in the scripture. How does the Bible tell us to deal with this overwhelming sense of darkness? Is it possible to emerge from the deep darkness of despair to the bright glory of the sun? Can mourning be turned into dancing? Let us see how the saints of old cried out to God to emerge into his provision!</p> Despair is a step beyond, regret, sadness and depression. it is a real battle for many people. Many are surprised that this negative emotion is abundantly portrayed in the scripture. How does the Bible tell us to deal with this overwhelming sense of darkness? Is it possible to emerge from the deep darkness of despair to the bright glory of the sun? Can mourning be turned into dancing? Let us see how the saints of old cried out to God to emerge into his provision!

]]> 3409 29 1ea56d5bb5dbecba72df029621dc2682 no Eugene Smith <p>What happened that day on the boat on the Sea between Jesus and Peter? What was the significance of the miracle catch of fish? What was the real miracle? Learn how Jesus catches the big fisherman, who will then go on to catch men alive in the kingdom of God!</p> <p>What happened that day on the boat on the Sea between Jesus and Peter? What was the significance of the miracle catch of fish? What was the real miracle? Learn how Jesus catches the big fisherman, who will then go on to catch men alive in the kingdom of God!</p> What happened that day on the boat on the Sea between Jesus and Peter? What was the significance of the miracle catch of fish? What was the real miracle? Learn how Jesus catches the big fisherman, who will then go on to catch men alive in the kingdom of God!

]]> 2946 30 814cc5d055896738f767ff2f761c7646 no Eugene Smith <p>The short story of 2 Kings 4:1-7 is packed with many truths! God wants our obedience as the key to see the miracle we need. There is never a problem with God's ability to give. The problem is whether we are prepared to receive! Let this story be an inspiration to demonstrate our faith in God!</p> <p>The short story of 2 Kings 4:1-7 is packed with many truths! God wants our obedience as the key to see the miracle we need. There is never a problem with God's ability to give. The problem is whether we are prepared to receive! Let this story be an inspiration to demonstrate our faith in God!</p> The short story of 2 Kings 4:1-7 is packed with many truths! God wants our obedience as the key to see the miracle we need. There is never a problem with God's ability to give. The problem is whether we are prepared to receive! Let this story be an inspiration to demonstrate our faith in God!

]]> 3003 31 e3cddec61ebf26c7a88ee76f19833348 no Eugene Smith <p>Jesus tells an amazing story about a wealthy man who held a grand banquet, but his invited friends made excuses as to why they could not come after accepting the invitation! What is Jesus teaching? What is the real miracle of this story? Let us be ready to convert to the value systems of the kingdom of heaven!</p> <p>Jesus tells an amazing story about a wealthy man who held a grand banquet, but his invited friends made excuses as to why they could not come after accepting the invitation! What is Jesus teaching? What is the real miracle of this story? Let us be ready to convert to the value systems of the kingdom of heaven!</p> Jesus tells an amazing story about a wealthy man who held a grand banquet, but his invited friends made excuses as to why they could not come after accepting the invitation! What is Jesus teaching? What is the real miracle of this story? Let us be ready to convert to the value systems of the kingdom of heaven!

]]> 2701 32 72ac32590560588b3d33c942c4c0753e no Eugene Smith <p>The Ministry of the Holy Spirit always works in conjunction with the Word, and the Word always works in conjunction with the Spirit. We can never have a preference of one over the other. In this message, I give some reminiscing of experiences of the Word and the Spirit that have shaped my life. I trust you will be blessed and encouraged.</p> <p>The Ministry of the Holy Spirit always works in conjunction with the Word, and the Word always works in conjunction with the Spirit. We can never have a preference of one over the other. In this message, I give some reminiscing of experiences of the Word and the Spirit that have shaped my life. I trust you will be blessed and encouraged.</p> The Ministry of the Holy Spirit always works in conjunction with the Word, and the Word always works in conjunction with the Spirit. We can never have a preference of one over the other. In this message, I give some reminiscing of experiences of the Word and the Spirit that have shaped my life. I trust you will be blessed and encouraged.

]]> 3188 33 3d9abeae1f2d17aeb382b81040ba88be no Eugene Smith <p>Romans 8:31-39 is a powerful and inspirational triumph! What God has done for the world is beyond comprehension! Who can fathom such love as this? God is committed to setting everything right in this world, and he has committed himself to you and me to bring us to our end in glory! God is 'for' us. We are more than conquerors! How shall we respond? What then shall we say to these things?</p> <p>Romans 8:31-39 is a powerful and inspirational triumph! What God has done for the world is beyond comprehension! Who can fathom such love as this? God is committed to setting everything right in this world, and he has committed himself to you and me to bring us to our end in glory! God is 'for' us. We are more than conquerors! How shall we respond? What then shall we say to these things?</p> Romans 8:31-39 is a powerful and inspirational triumph! What God has done for the world is beyond comprehension! Who can fathom such love as this? God is committed to setting everything right in this world, and he has committed himself to you and me to bring us to our end in glory! God is 'for' us. We are more than conquerors! How shall we respond? What then shall we say to these things?

]]> 3146 34 9ba01059e2a950e4c95b13555324eaac no Eugene Smith <p>What happened in Jerusalem that day? How did Peter explain it to the multitudes? What did he mean when he said, "This is that"? What stupendous things just happened? The outpouring of the Spirit proved so many things, explained so many mysteries, and culminated in the greatest of all announcements: Jesus is King!</p> <p>What happened in Jerusalem that day? How did Peter explain it to the multitudes? What did he mean when he said, "This is that"? What stupendous things just happened? The outpouring of the Spirit proved so many things, explained so many mysteries, and culminated in the greatest of all announcements: Jesus is King!</p> What happened in Jerusalem that day? How did Peter explain it to the multitudes? What did he mean when he said, "This is that"? What stupendous things just happened? The outpouring of the Spirit proved so many things, explained so many mysteries, and culminated in the greatest of all announcements: Jesus is King!

]]> 2959 35 ca180217b7af0a1f6a307fb4935fd9a3 no Eugene Smith <p>This is a truth beyond comprehension! The transcendent and immanent God has drawn so close to be with us! But how he did it exceeded the expectations of any Old Testament saint! God humbled himself and entered our broken world that he might be with us! The New Testament gives several reasons why God did this. We are the most privileged beings in all of creation to be the beneficiaries of such an amazing loving God!</p> <p>This is a truth beyond comprehension! The transcendent and immanent God has drawn so close to be with us! But how he did it exceeded the expectations of any Old Testament saint! God humbled himself and entered our broken world that he might be with us! The New Testament gives several reasons why God did this. We are the most privileged beings in all of creation to be the beneficiaries of such an amazing loving God!</p> This is a truth beyond comprehension! The transcendent and immanent God has drawn so close to be with us! But how he did it exceeded the expectations of any Old Testament saint! God humbled himself and entered our broken world that he might be with us! The New Testament gives several reasons why God did this. We are the most privileged beings in all of creation to be the beneficiaries of such an amazing loving God!

]]> 2645 36 ee56f143c88ccc025ef635ef498675eb no Eugene Smith <p>In the files of records of births and deaths, there are some outstanding names that evoke memories of greatness. Yet there are other files of names of which nothing whatsoever is known. Buried deep within a list of names of people who are lost to all memory is one name that refuses to go unnoticed. The inscription on this tombstone is incredible. May we follow this example so that we don't spend our time on earth in meaningless existence, but in worth and significance. Who is this and how was it done?</p> <p>In the files of records of births and deaths, there are some outstanding names that evoke memories of greatness. Yet there are other files of names of which nothing whatsoever is known. Buried deep within a list of names of people who are lost to all memory is one name that refuses to go unnoticed. The inscription on this tombstone is incredible. May we follow this example so that we don't spend our time on earth in meaningless existence, but in worth and significance. Who is this and how was it done?</p> In the files of records of births and deaths, there are some outstanding names that evoke memories of greatness. Yet there are other files of names of which nothing whatsoever is known. Buried deep within a list of names of people who are lost to all memory is one name that refuses to go unnoticed. The inscription on this tombstone is incredible. May we follow this example so that we don't spend our time on earth in meaningless existence, but in worth and significance. Who is this and how was it done?

]]> 2842 37 dd7c52891cf34254c43503a0dc23a3ab no Eugene Smith <p>In the Song of Solomon, the bride makes three confessions of love. Through them, we can observe how love grows and matures. There are principles found here that can apply to our relationship with the Lord. We can see what our initial response is to the Lord, and what it is to develop a long walk with God.</p> <p>In the Song of Solomon, the bride makes three confessions of love. Through them, we can observe how love grows and matures. There are principles found here that can apply to our relationship with the Lord. We can see what our initial response is to the Lord, and what it is to develop a long walk with God.</p> In the Song of Solomon, the bride makes three confessions of love. Through them, we can observe how love grows and matures. There are principles found here that can apply to our relationship with the Lord. We can see what our initial response is to the Lord, and what it is to develop a long walk with God.

]]> 2960 38 584d94a2bf0629cba1900591bee9b8ff no Eugene Smith <p>Jesus saw that there were people who trusted in their own righteousness. But what is true righteousness? What is the kind of prayer will touch the heart of God? Jesus gives a simple parable that exposes the depths of the human heart. The answer he gives is quite opposite of what the world might think!</p> <p>Jesus saw that there were people who trusted in their own righteousness. But what is true righteousness? What is the kind of prayer will touch the heart of God? Jesus gives a simple parable that exposes the depths of the human heart. The answer he gives is quite opposite of what the world might think!</p> Jesus saw that there were people who trusted in their own righteousness. But what is true righteousness? What is the kind of prayer will touch the heart of God? Jesus gives a simple parable that exposes the depths of the human heart. The answer he gives is quite opposite of what the world might think!

]]> 2932 39 5d20ffa16d253a2c538ce83a27122b7a no Eugene Smith <p>What does water baptism symbolize? Has the meaning changed throughout church history? Are there any Old Testament antecedents of this? What was the baptism of John the Baptist? How is Christian baptism both similar and different from John's? What then is the significance of New Testament baptism? These questions are explored in this second of a two-part series on the importance of water baptism as part of the message that the kingdom of heaven has arrived in the person and ministry of Jesus!</p> <p>What does water baptism symbolize? Has the meaning changed throughout church history? Are there any Old Testament antecedents of this? What was the baptism of John the Baptist? How is Christian baptism both similar and different from John's? What then is the significance of New Testament baptism? These questions are explored in this second of a two-part series on the importance of water baptism as part of the message that the kingdom of heaven has arrived in the person and ministry of Jesus!</p> What does water baptism symbolize? Has the meaning changed throughout church history? Are there any Old Testament antecedents of this? What was the baptism of John the Baptist? How is Christian baptism both similar and different from John's? What then is the significance of New Testament baptism? These questions are explored in this second of a two-part series on the importance of water baptism as part of the message that the kingdom of heaven has arrived in the person and ministry of Jesus!

]]> 3360 40 e2c4f4cc543387a7ba4a333692bce0a1 no Eugene Smith <p>This is the first in a short series on the subject of water baptism. What is it? Why is it important? How does it relate the message of the kingdom of heaven? How is a person to respond to the this message? What does it symbolize? What role does it play in the believer's discipleship? These questions are answered. Have your Bible open to follow along!</p> <p>This is the first in a short series on the subject of water baptism. What is it? Why is it important? How does it relate the message of the kingdom of heaven? How is a person to respond to the this message? What does it symbolize? What role does it play in the believer's discipleship? These questions are answered. Have your Bible open to follow along!</p> This is the first in a short series on the subject of water baptism. What is it? Why is it important? How does it relate the message of the kingdom of heaven? How is a person to respond to the this message? What does it symbolize? What role does it play in the believer's discipleship? These questions are answered. Have your Bible open to follow along!

]]> 3271 41 4cd33890f47d6a4ac7385556b5582438 no Eugene Smith <p>God desires to manifest himself to his people. He yearns to dwell in their midst. This is the record of scripture from Genesis right through Revelation. The story line of temple to temple flows through the Garden of Eden, Moses, David, Solomon, Jesus' first coming, the church, and his glorious appearing to come! It is the presence of God that is craved above everything else. So must we.</p> <p>God desires to manifest himself to his people. He yearns to dwell in their midst. This is the record of scripture from Genesis right through Revelation. The story line of temple to temple flows through the Garden of Eden, Moses, David, Solomon, Jesus' first coming, the church, and his glorious appearing to come! It is the presence of God that is craved above everything else. So must we.</p> God desires to manifest himself to his people. He yearns to dwell in their midst. This is the record of scripture from Genesis right through Revelation. The story line of temple to temple flows through the Garden of Eden, Moses, David, Solomon, Jesus' first coming, the church, and his glorious appearing to come! It is the presence of God that is craved above everything else. So must we.

]]> 3211 42 b4382167585e08fb246d567e439c5bd7 no Eugene Smith <p>When Paul told the Corinthian church they were the temple of the living God, an entire history of the temple was behind that truth! What is the history that gives meaning to the unbelievable truth that we are the temple of God, and that the Holy Spirit dwells in us? As history begins with the creation of the cosmic temple (Genesis 1), and ends with the final revelation of the temple (Revelation21- 22), what implications are felt by the church which is the temple of the living God?</p> <p>When Paul told the Corinthian church they were the temple of the living God, an entire history of the temple was behind that truth! What is the history that gives meaning to the unbelievable truth that we are the temple of God, and that the Holy Spirit dwells in us? As history begins with the creation of the cosmic temple (Genesis 1), and ends with the final revelation of the temple (Revelation21- 22), what implications are felt by the church which is the temple of the living God?</p> When Paul told the Corinthian church they were the temple of the living God, an entire history of the temple was behind that truth! What is the history that gives meaning to the unbelievable truth that we are the temple of God, and that the Holy Spirit dwells in us? As history begins with the creation of the cosmic temple (Genesis 1), and ends with the final revelation of the temple (Revelation21- 22), what implications are felt by the church which is the temple of the living God?

]]> 3459 43 04a72f45f1311d0e163fd51092a43330 no Eugene Smith <p>From the beginning to the end of the scripture narrative, God's express desire is to dwell in the midst of his people. God yearns to be in the midst of his people, to be their God, and they would truly be his people. What powerful revelation of the heart of God towards his people! What a privilege to be the temple of the Lord and having the Holy Spirit dwell in us!</p> <p>From the beginning to the end of the scripture narrative, God's express desire is to dwell in the midst of his people. God yearns to be in the midst of his people, to be their God, and they would truly be his people. What powerful revelation of the heart of God towards his people! What a privilege to be the temple of the Lord and having the Holy Spirit dwell in us!</p> From the beginning to the end of the scripture narrative, God's express desire is to dwell in the midst of his people. God yearns to be in the midst of his people, to be their God, and they would truly be his people. What powerful revelation of the heart of God towards his people! What a privilege to be the temple of the Lord and having the Holy Spirit dwell in us!

]]> 2857 44 bdd54ca3c7e955130d84474c74266b9f no Eugene Smith <p>A heart that loves is also a heart that can experience pain and hurt. Many are the scriptures that speak of the pain of God's heart. Ezekiel is allowed to see God's incredible pain, but also will see the amazing compassion of God towards his people. Hear the gracious gospel from God's heart that cannot let his people go...</p> <p>A heart that loves is also a heart that can experience pain and hurt. Many are the scriptures that speak of the pain of God's heart. Ezekiel is allowed to see God's incredible pain, but also will see the amazing compassion of God towards his people. Hear the gracious gospel from God's heart that cannot let his people go...</p> A heart that loves is also a heart that can experience pain and hurt. Many are the scriptures that speak of the pain of God's heart. Ezekiel is allowed to see God's incredible pain, but also will see the amazing compassion of God towards his people. Hear the gracious gospel from God's heart that cannot let his people go...

]]> 4169 45 160eb502ee4e6a17ccdcd4b561f0edc4 no Eugene Smith <p>In answering his critics as to why he sat and ate with sinners, Jesus tells one parable comprised of three stories. The shepherd and woman do what is normally expected of them, but the father in the third story breaks the mould! Why does this father act in such a strange way, publicly humiliating himself in the process? What does Jesus want to teach us about God?</p> <p>In answering his critics as to why he sat and ate with sinners, Jesus tells one parable comprised of three stories. The shepherd and woman do what is normally expected of them, but the father in the third story breaks the mould! Why does this father act in such a strange way, publicly humiliating himself in the process? What does Jesus want to teach us about God?</p> In answering his critics as to why he sat and ate with sinners, Jesus tells one parable comprised of three stories. The shepherd and woman do what is normally expected of them, but the father in the third story breaks the mould! Why does this father act in such a strange way, publicly humiliating himself in the process? What does Jesus want to teach us about God?

]]> 2496 46 ac2fb69126cfa2009a92c9c3ad8d08ae no Eugene Smith <p>The Old Covenant ended in failure with the people of God being carried away into captivity. Both the city and temple of God were destroyed. Why did the covenant fail? How does God's promise of a New Covenant surpass that of the old? The New Covenant is full of glory and power - what a revelation of the heart of God!</p> <p>The Old Covenant ended in failure with the people of God being carried away into captivity. Both the city and temple of God were destroyed. Why did the covenant fail? How does God's promise of a New Covenant surpass that of the old? The New Covenant is full of glory and power - what a revelation of the heart of God!</p> The Old Covenant ended in failure with the people of God being carried away into captivity. Both the city and temple of God were destroyed. Why did the covenant fail? How does God's promise of a New Covenant surpass that of the old? The New Covenant is full of glory and power - what a revelation of the heart of God!

]]> 2309 47 36d663646ec3a32964260ebcf7e73752 no Eugene Smith <p>After witnessing the prayer life of Jesus, the disciples asked if he could teach them to pray. What was the prayer life of Jesus like? Why were the disciples attracted to it? The role of intercession is powerfully portrayed in the life and ministry of Jesus, and serves as the foundational example for all believers. Lord, teach us to pray!</p> <p>After witnessing the prayer life of Jesus, the disciples asked if he could teach them to pray. What was the prayer life of Jesus like? Why were the disciples attracted to it? The role of intercession is powerfully portrayed in the life and ministry of Jesus, and serves as the foundational example for all believers. Lord, teach us to pray!</p> After witnessing the prayer life of Jesus, the disciples asked if he could teach them to pray. What was the prayer life of Jesus like? Why were the disciples attracted to it? The role of intercession is powerfully portrayed in the life and ministry of Jesus, and serves as the foundational example for all believers. Lord, teach us to pray!

]]> 3269 48 78ad80c651128ffec65bb712c87deac1 no Eugene Smith <p>God uses the family unit as a basis of revelation of his character. How important the Christian family must be! God's work usually spans generations, and parents are to pass along the vision of God's will to their children. Thus, God makes covenant with us and our children, granting promises as he deals with families as a unit. Learn how the heart of a mother was stronger than an entire empire! What amazing power and influence God has given to parents!</p> <p>God uses the family unit as a basis of revelation of his character. How important the Christian family must be! God's work usually spans generations, and parents are to pass along the vision of God's will to their children. Thus, God makes covenant with us and our children, granting promises as he deals with families as a unit. Learn how the heart of a mother was stronger than an entire empire! What amazing power and influence God has given to parents!</p> God uses the family unit as a basis of revelation of his character. How important the Christian family must be! God's work usually spans generations, and parents are to pass along the vision of God's will to their children. Thus, God makes covenant with us and our children, granting promises as he deals with families as a unit. Learn how the heart of a mother was stronger than an entire empire! What amazing power and influence God has given to parents!

]]> 3388 49 c6223eaec301210e678904a50871a136 no Eugene Smith <p>When Jesus taught the disciples to pray, he gave them the content of what it commonly referred to as "The Lord's Prayer". This prayer summarises the mission of Jesus to enact a 'new exodus', to once again come to set the captives free. Everything in this prayer is a reflection of the Exodus story, bringing the kingdom of heaven to bear upon the needs of this world. Let us hear with fresh ears what must have been incredible to his disciples.</p> <p>When Jesus taught the disciples to pray, he gave them the content of what it commonly referred to as "The Lord's Prayer". This prayer summarises the mission of Jesus to enact a 'new exodus', to once again come to set the captives free. Everything in this prayer is a reflection of the Exodus story, bringing the kingdom of heaven to bear upon the needs of this world. Let us hear with fresh ears what must have been incredible to his disciples.</p> When Jesus taught the disciples to pray, he gave them the content of what it commonly referred to as "The Lord's Prayer". This prayer summarises the mission of Jesus to enact a 'new exodus', to once again come to set the captives free. Everything in this prayer is a reflection of the Exodus story, bringing the kingdom of heaven to bear upon the needs of this world. Let us hear with fresh ears what must have been incredible to his disciples.

]]> 3026 50 d1c2ab8f1eda20b2277c41689b5b7f16 no Eugene Smith <p>Why do people behave the way they do? What control do the 'powers' of the world have over the mind? What role does the Holy Spirit play in our freedom? Paul shows the way as we are renewed in the spirit of our minds!</p> <p>Why do people behave the way they do? What control do the 'powers' of the world have over the mind? What role does the Holy Spirit play in our freedom? Paul shows the way as we are renewed in the spirit of our minds!</p> Why do people behave the way they do? What control do the 'powers' of the world have over the mind? What role does the Holy Spirit play in our freedom? Paul shows the way as we are renewed in the spirit of our minds!

]]> 3035 51 5a3289ef20f51dcb435b60f47e0dd3c3 no Eugene Smith <p>The work of God requires leaders who have been gripped by vision. Vision must be instilled deep within the soul of the worker, which expresses itself through hard work, dogged perseverance, a servant's heart and a life disciplined in prayer. May God raise up workers who have been filled with the burden of the Lord, who will see his work through to the end!</p> <p>The work of God requires leaders who have been gripped by vision. Vision must be instilled deep within the soul of the worker, which expresses itself through hard work, dogged perseverance, a servant's heart and a life disciplined in prayer. May God raise up workers who have been filled with the burden of the Lord, who will see his work through to the end!</p> The work of God requires leaders who have been gripped by vision. Vision must be instilled deep within the soul of the worker, which expresses itself through hard work, dogged perseverance, a servant's heart and a life disciplined in prayer. May God raise up workers who have been filled with the burden of the Lord, who will see his work through to the end!

]]> 3119 52 4c57bd444d2633ade61d2399c629471c no Eugene Smith <p>A young David was aghast no one would take up Goliath's challenge. Elijah demanded that the people choose which god they would serve. Satan resists our every attempt at freedom, but Pharaoh must let God's people go. There are powerful lessons in the struggle to freedom, but no other option is possible!</p> <p>A young David was aghast no one would take up Goliath's challenge. Elijah demanded that the people choose which god they would serve. Satan resists our every attempt at freedom, but Pharaoh must let God's people go. There are powerful lessons in the struggle to freedom, but no other option is possible!</p> A young David was aghast no one would take up Goliath's challenge. Elijah demanded that the people choose which god they would serve. Satan resists our every attempt at freedom, but Pharaoh must let God's people go. There are powerful lessons in the struggle to freedom, but no other option is possible!

]]> 3331 53 1d43c9d155182126b645514dd1028e16 no Eugene Smith <p>The golden altar of incense was the only piece of furniture in the Tabernacle of Moses that was exclusively for God. All other activities led to this golden altar. Yet the cost was real. Hear what difference ministry to the Lord makes, and why it must be priority.</p> <p>The golden altar of incense was the only piece of furniture in the Tabernacle of Moses that was exclusively for God. All other activities led to this golden altar. Yet the cost was real. Hear what difference ministry to the Lord makes, and why it must be priority.</p> The golden altar of incense was the only piece of furniture in the Tabernacle of Moses that was exclusively for God. All other activities led to this golden altar. Yet the cost was real. Hear what difference ministry to the Lord makes, and why it must be priority.

]]> 2985 54 ac534cb9f1c601ae727b7825792162ae no Eugene Smith <p>An angel appeared to Manoah's wife. She was going to have a baby! What is a parent supposed to do with such an announcement from a heavenly visitor? What an awesome responsibility. But Samson failed in his life. An angel also appeared to the elderly Zechariah. His elderly wife will also have a baby! John the Baptist is known as the greatest of men born of a woman. Why is there such a difference between these two children? Does it have anything to do with the parents? How shall we raise our children?</p> <p>An angel appeared to Manoah's wife. She was going to have a baby! What is a parent supposed to do with such an announcement from a heavenly visitor? What an awesome responsibility. But Samson failed in his life. An angel also appeared to the elderly Zechariah. His elderly wife will also have a baby! John the Baptist is known as the greatest of men born of a woman. Why is there such a difference between these two children? Does it have anything to do with the parents? How shall we raise our children?</p> An angel appeared to Manoah's wife. She was going to have a baby! What is a parent supposed to do with such an announcement from a heavenly visitor? What an awesome responsibility. But Samson failed in his life. An angel also appeared to the elderly Zechariah. His elderly wife will also have a baby! John the Baptist is known as the greatest of men born of a woman. Why is there such a difference between these two children? Does it have anything to do with the parents? How shall we raise our children?

]]> 2609 55 67fce9b6f4d020c1bc5ac1551c1c7b42 no Eugene Smith <p>Vision is necessary to keep the 'magnetic' pull of the heart of God upon our souls. We all need to have an overmastering conviction upon our hearts and minds, or we begin to stray. Prophetic vision from the Holy Spirit serves that purpose. Let us hear the voice of the Lord, and have our eyes open to the purpose of God, especially that which he has ordained for his Son!</p> <p>Vision is necessary to keep the 'magnetic' pull of the heart of God upon our souls. We all need to have an overmastering conviction upon our hearts and minds, or we begin to stray. Prophetic vision from the Holy Spirit serves that purpose. Let us hear the voice of the Lord, and have our eyes open to the purpose of God, especially that which he has ordained for his Son!</p> Vision is necessary to keep the 'magnetic' pull of the heart of God upon our souls. We all need to have an overmastering conviction upon our hearts and minds, or we begin to stray. Prophetic vision from the Holy Spirit serves that purpose. Let us hear the voice of the Lord, and have our eyes open to the purpose of God, especially that which he has ordained for his Son!

]]> 2769 56 32ccf5204edc7b3475e0257487868c99 no Eugene Smith <p>Did Mary comprehend the momentous events that surrounded the birth of Jesus? Did she grasp the implications of what this meant for her in particular? What does it mean to say 'Yes' to the will of God? Mary had much to learn and much to adjust. The story of Mary serves as a powerful illustration of what it means to submit to the will of God.</p> <p>Did Mary comprehend the momentous events that surrounded the birth of Jesus? Did she grasp the implications of what this meant for her in particular? What does it mean to say 'Yes' to the will of God? Mary had much to learn and much to adjust. The story of Mary serves as a powerful illustration of what it means to submit to the will of God.</p> Did Mary comprehend the momentous events that surrounded the birth of Jesus? Did she grasp the implications of what this meant for her in particular? What does it mean to say 'Yes' to the will of God? Mary had much to learn and much to adjust. The story of Mary serves as a powerful illustration of what it means to submit to the will of God.

]]> 2860 57 9adee72c923496937666611b2984ead4 no Eugene Smith <p>At the tomb of Lazarus, Jesus displayed deep emotion. What was behind his groaning, his being troubled and his weeping? This emotional story unveils the depths of the heart of Jesus that drives him to confront the worst of our enemies: death! Learn of the passion of Jesus that slays our enemies with fury!</p> <p>At the tomb of Lazarus, Jesus displayed deep emotion. What was behind his groaning, his being troubled and his weeping? This emotional story unveils the depths of the heart of Jesus that drives him to confront the worst of our enemies: death! Learn of the passion of Jesus that slays our enemies with fury!</p> At the tomb of Lazarus, Jesus displayed deep emotion. What was behind his groaning, his being troubled and his weeping? This emotional story unveils the depths of the heart of Jesus that drives him to confront the worst of our enemies: death! Learn of the passion of Jesus that slays our enemies with fury!

]]> 3100 58 d039152930e1b170337c9e16edf2c5c6 no Eugene Smith <p>Death is the enemy of God and all mankind. The resurrection of Jesus has abolished death, stripped it of its power and fear. Between now and the coming of Jesus, it is a friend to the believer. At the appearing of Jesus, it will cease to exist! What a change of perspective this gives to the life which we now live! Hope overflows us as we anticipate the future! The world is a different place - there is a new king upon the throne!</p> <p>Death is the enemy of God and all mankind. The resurrection of Jesus has abolished death, stripped it of its power and fear. Between now and the coming of Jesus, it is a friend to the believer. At the appearing of Jesus, it will cease to exist! What a change of perspective this gives to the life which we now live! Hope overflows us as we anticipate the future! The world is a different place - there is a new king upon the throne!</p> Death is the enemy of God and all mankind. The resurrection of Jesus has abolished death, stripped it of its power and fear. Between now and the coming of Jesus, it is a friend to the believer. At the appearing of Jesus, it will cease to exist! What a change of perspective this gives to the life which we now live! Hope overflows us as we anticipate the future! The world is a different place - there is a new king upon the throne!

]]> 3158 59 b9064e9c846217c2f8600bda5765350f no <p>The Book of Hebrews clearly informs us that the way to the immediate presence of God has been opened to you and me. The writer takes pains to tell us the work that Christ has done to make it so. We are then urged to take advantage of the work of Christ, for we are more than welcome to come before God.</p> <p>The Book of Hebrews clearly informs us that the way to the immediate presence of God has been opened to you and me. The writer takes pains to tell us the work that Christ has done to make it so. We are then urged to take advantage of the work of Christ, for we are more than welcome to come before God.</p> The Book of Hebrews clearly informs us that the way to the immediate presence of God has been opened to you and me. The writer takes pains to tell us the work that Christ has done to make it so. We are then urged to take advantage of the work of Christ, for we are more than welcome to come before God.

]]> 2536 60 8748958e23ec35b25557924ecc47ff40 no Eugene Smith <p>Some of Jesus' parables emphasize the need to wait. Not everything happens as we expect it to. The kingdom may appear different than what anticipate. As we look forward to the consummation of the kingdom (not yet), how shall we live according to the kingdom that is already?</p> <p>Some of Jesus' parables emphasize the need to wait. Not everything happens as we expect it to. The kingdom may appear different than what anticipate. As we look forward to the consummation of the kingdom (not yet), how shall we live according to the kingdom that is already?</p> Some of Jesus' parables emphasize the need to wait. Not everything happens as we expect it to. The kingdom may appear different than what anticipate. As we look forward to the consummation of the kingdom (not yet), how shall we live according to the kingdom that is already?

]]> 2974 61 881290fff71dd5f9ce55b9052441d098 no <p>Scripture has many examples of the righteous crying out to God in times of suffering. We can be brutally honest with God concerning our feelings. Is there a right or wrong way to lament before God? What should be our disposition as we express our griefs and disappointments to God? Be encouraged as we explore the scripture together.</p> <p>Scripture has many examples of the righteous crying out to God in times of suffering. We can be brutally honest with God concerning our feelings. Is there a right or wrong way to lament before God? What should be our disposition as we express our griefs and disappointments to God? Be encouraged as we explore the scripture together.</p> Scripture has many examples of the righteous crying out to God in times of suffering. We can be brutally honest with God concerning our feelings. Is there a right or wrong way to lament before God? What should be our disposition as we express our griefs and disappointments to God? Be encouraged as we explore the scripture together.

]]> 3481 62 8519ba98a242fc033228a9f8a0e959ba no <p>After pouring his entire life into his mission, was John mistaken when he identified Jesus as the Messiah? Surely Jesus would acknowledge the injustice of his imprisonment! Listen to the wise answer Jesus relayed back to his faithful but discouraged servant.</p> <p>After pouring his entire life into his mission, was John mistaken when he identified Jesus as the Messiah? Surely Jesus would acknowledge the injustice of his imprisonment! Listen to the wise answer Jesus relayed back to his faithful but discouraged servant.</p> After pouring his entire life into his mission, was John mistaken when he identified Jesus as the Messiah? Surely Jesus would acknowledge the injustice of his imprisonment! Listen to the wise answer Jesus relayed back to his faithful but discouraged servant.

]]> 2897 63 5f0967007372c53b82ad6c2b15d8fc98 no Eugene Smith <p>Why did God lead Israel on a detour shortly after being liberated from slavery in Egypt? This place in the wilderness certainly was not on route to the Promised Land! They soon discovered that they had encamped in the most vulnerable, hopeless place possible, and Pharaoh was in hot pursuit of them again! What was God doing?</p> <p>Why did God lead Israel on a detour shortly after being liberated from slavery in Egypt? This place in the wilderness certainly was not on route to the Promised Land! They soon discovered that they had encamped in the most vulnerable, hopeless place possible, and Pharaoh was in hot pursuit of them again! What was God doing?</p> Why did God lead Israel on a detour shortly after being liberated from slavery in Egypt? This place in the wilderness certainly was not on route to the Promised Land! They soon discovered that they had encamped in the most vulnerable, hopeless place possible, and Pharaoh was in hot pursuit of them again! What was God doing?

]]> Sat, 05 Dec 2020 10:00:00 +0000 2816 64 caffc4aac4a467958e825c77a22a5c0b no Eugene Smith <p>Really, Jacob? Is life nothing more than a billiard ball that gets knocked around until it is finally sunk? Is all of life conspiring against God's will for us? Jacob needed a different perspective, for God sees what man cannot! Let us see what God knew all along, but Jacob had to discover...</p> <p>Really, Jacob? Is life nothing more than a billiard ball that gets knocked around until it is finally sunk? Is all of life conspiring against God's will for us? Jacob needed a different perspective, for God sees what man cannot! Let us see what God knew all along, but Jacob had to discover...</p> Really, Jacob? Is life nothing more than a billiard ball that gets knocked around until it is finally sunk? Is all of life conspiring against God's will for us? Jacob needed a different perspective, for God sees what man cannot! Let us see what God knew all along, but Jacob had to discover...

]]> 3018 65 e1512046677f648b6da48d17936cc7d7 no Eugene Smith <p>The Book of Ecclesiastes can come across as a very depressing read. The search for meaning in life left the author despairing of life itself! Vanity! Vanity! All is vanity! Listen to the author of this book describe this journey, and then listen to a father's advice to his son in light of all that has been said. If meaning is to be found, it is not 'under the sun'. So, how does the rest of scripture interact with this and where can profit for the soul be found?</p> <p>The Book of Ecclesiastes can come across as a very depressing read. The search for meaning in life left the author despairing of life itself! Vanity! Vanity! All is vanity! Listen to the author of this book describe this journey, and then listen to a father's advice to his son in light of all that has been said. If meaning is to be found, it is not 'under the sun'. So, how does the rest of scripture interact with this and where can profit for the soul be found?</p> The Book of Ecclesiastes can come across as a very depressing read. The search for meaning in life left the author despairing of life itself! Vanity! Vanity! All is vanity! Listen to the author of this book describe this journey, and then listen to a father's advice to his son in light of all that has been said. If meaning is to be found, it is not 'under the sun'. So, how does the rest of scripture interact with this and where can profit for the soul be found?

]]> 3671 66 b1307b933d004f2998b91c03a5d1bd2b no Eugene Smith <p>Does God know me? Is he aware of the pains in my life? Does he know my story? Scripture is amazing clear in giving clear answers to these questions. There is one story in particular that shows the amazement of one individual who discovered the truth! Do you know which story this is?</p> <p>Does God know me? Is he aware of the pains in my life? Does he know my story? Scripture is amazing clear in giving clear answers to these questions. There is one story in particular that shows the amazement of one individual who discovered the truth! Do you know which story this is?</p> Does God know me? Is he aware of the pains in my life? Does he know my story? Scripture is amazing clear in giving clear answers to these questions. There is one story in particular that shows the amazement of one individual who discovered the truth! Do you know which story this is?

]]> 3526 67 9a9d488ec523f8be7e2b2ffdec45a45a no Eugene Smith <p>Hebrews 11 speaks of the saints who lived by faith. Yet when we read their life stories in the Old Testament, the word 'faith' is not used. Instead, it uses the words 'trust', 'obey' and 'believe'. The lives of these servants illustrate what the New Testament means when it speaks of 'faith'. Let us follow their example.</p> <p>Hebrews 11 speaks of the saints who lived by faith. Yet when we read their life stories in the Old Testament, the word 'faith' is not used. Instead, it uses the words 'trust', 'obey' and 'believe'. The lives of these servants illustrate what the New Testament means when it speaks of 'faith'. Let us follow their example.</p> Hebrews 11 speaks of the saints who lived by faith. Yet when we read their life stories in the Old Testament, the word 'faith' is not used. Instead, it uses the words 'trust', 'obey' and 'believe'. The lives of these servants illustrate what the New Testament means when it speaks of 'faith'. Let us follow their example.

]]> 2780 68 ab78f7c33e032c7711e2e7cc8f72a7ae no Eugene Smith <p>Is there a difference between 'faith' and 'the faith'? One is the result of hearing the dynamic, life-imparting, energizing voice of God. The other is a systematic recording of those words. To be immersed in the recorded words of scripture does not guarantee that the voice of God has been heard. Every generation must hear the voice of God for itself, and not just inherit the traditions handed down. Every child must not just inherit the faith of his/her parents, but encounter God for themselves. Passive faith is hearing what God said to others. Active faith is the result of hearing the voice of God.</p> <p>Is there a difference between 'faith' and 'the faith'? One is the result of hearing the dynamic, life-imparting, energizing voice of God. The other is a systematic recording of those words. To be immersed in the recorded words of scripture does not guarantee that the voice of God has been heard. Every generation must hear the voice of God for itself, and not just inherit the traditions handed down. Every child must not just inherit the faith of his/her parents, but encounter God for themselves. Passive faith is hearing what God said to others. Active faith is the result of hearing the voice of God.</p> Is there a difference between 'faith' and 'the faith'? One is the result of hearing the dynamic, life-imparting, energizing voice of God. The other is a systematic recording of those words. To be immersed in the recorded words of scripture does not guarantee that the voice of God has been heard. Every generation must hear the voice of God for itself, and not just inherit the traditions handed down. Every child must not just inherit the faith of his/her parents, but encounter God for themselves. Passive faith is hearing what God said to others. Active faith is the result of hearing the voice of God.

]]> 2616 69 29e3dbdbab2204f77b6660c7d579fa89 no Eugene Smith <p>There is no need to fake faith. We are privileged to hear God's voice, and it is God's voice that imparts faith into our being. Man cannot manufacture nor produce faith. He can only receive it by hearing the voice of God. Once God speaks, we must respond properly to it. Be encouraged as we explore the scriptures on this important topic.</p> <p>There is no need to fake faith. We are privileged to hear God's voice, and it is God's voice that imparts faith into our being. Man cannot manufacture nor produce faith. He can only receive it by hearing the voice of God. Once God speaks, we must respond properly to it. Be encouraged as we explore the scriptures on this important topic.</p> There is no need to fake faith. We are privileged to hear God's voice, and it is God's voice that imparts faith into our being. Man cannot manufacture nor produce faith. He can only receive it by hearing the voice of God. Once God speaks, we must respond properly to it. Be encouraged as we explore the scriptures on this important topic.

]]> 3014 70 ad01affbe183644c7b3f7b09d7423c3e no Eugene Smith <p>We all feel a weakness when it comes to our prayer lives. The Holy Spirit is God's gracious gift to us to enable us to do what we cannot do! The Holy Spirit groans within us, ever reaching forward to the day of glory, and yet is grieved with the unrighteousness that is in this present world. This tension, between conception and birth, is the basis for praying in the Spirit.</p> <p>We all feel a weakness when it comes to our prayer lives. The Holy Spirit is God's gracious gift to us to enable us to do what we cannot do! The Holy Spirit groans within us, ever reaching forward to the day of glory, and yet is grieved with the unrighteousness that is in this present world. This tension, between conception and birth, is the basis for praying in the Spirit.</p> We all feel a weakness when it comes to our prayer lives. The Holy Spirit is God's gracious gift to us to enable us to do what we cannot do! The Holy Spirit groans within us, ever reaching forward to the day of glory, and yet is grieved with the unrighteousness that is in this present world. This tension, between conception and birth, is the basis for praying in the Spirit.

]]> 3030 71 610cd5af24a083f0f32c3cd9e781c8fd no Eugene Smith <p>Through the gift of the Holy Spirit, the believer 'tastes' the powers of the world to come. The future is breaking into the present. The destiny of the believer is to share in the glory of the appearing Christ. The Holy Spirit will lead, guide and protect the believer from conversion right through to the appearing of Christ where he will participate in the glory of that day!</p> <p>Through the gift of the Holy Spirit, the believer 'tastes' the powers of the world to come. The future is breaking into the present. The destiny of the believer is to share in the glory of the appearing Christ. The Holy Spirit will lead, guide and protect the believer from conversion right through to the appearing of Christ where he will participate in the glory of that day!</p> Through the gift of the Holy Spirit, the believer 'tastes' the powers of the world to come. The future is breaking into the present. The destiny of the believer is to share in the glory of the appearing Christ. The Holy Spirit will lead, guide and protect the believer from conversion right through to the appearing of Christ where he will participate in the glory of that day!

]]> 3156 72 7a469eac8876324965088425327938e4 no Eugene Smith <p>Isaiah speaks of how the nation fell into the position where they eventually were taken into foreign exile. What had they done to put themselves in such a position? Grieving the Spirit is serious business with massive implications. Hear how the heart of God yearns for his people, what his hopes are and what he has done to bless his people. Hear how his people responded, and the consequences of such a choice. Yet in the end, God remains faithful. He is such a compassionate God!</p> <p>Isaiah speaks of how the nation fell into the position where they eventually were taken into foreign exile. What had they done to put themselves in such a position? Grieving the Spirit is serious business with massive implications. Hear how the heart of God yearns for his people, what his hopes are and what he has done to bless his people. Hear how his people responded, and the consequences of such a choice. Yet in the end, God remains faithful. He is such a compassionate God!</p> Isaiah speaks of how the nation fell into the position where they eventually were taken into foreign exile. What had they done to put themselves in such a position? Grieving the Spirit is serious business with massive implications. Hear how the heart of God yearns for his people, what his hopes are and what he has done to bless his people. Hear how his people responded, and the consequences of such a choice. Yet in the end, God remains faithful. He is such a compassionate God!

]]> 3622 73 42ae191562b6a4851a9869cceef11c53 no Eugene Smith <p>In times of trial, have you met Eliphaz, Bolded or Zophar? They were convinced that Job had sinned! What other explanation cold there be for his circumstances? Surely he must have committed a terrible sin! And with such words, they condemned the very one that God boasted that there was no one on earth as righteous as Job!</p> <p>In times of trial, have you met Eliphaz, Bolded or Zophar? They were convinced that Job had sinned! What other explanation cold there be for his circumstances? Surely he must have committed a terrible sin! And with such words, they condemned the very one that God boasted that there was no one on earth as righteous as Job!</p> In times of trial, have you met Eliphaz, Bolded or Zophar? They were convinced that Job had sinned! What other explanation cold there be for his circumstances? Surely he must have committed a terrible sin! And with such words, they condemned the very one that God boasted that there was no one on earth as righteous as Job!

]]> 3627 74 37f3d396d5c9c61785db0790776df054 no Eugene Smith <p>The story isn't over if God doesn't have the last word! What is God's perspective? What is this 'double portion' Job receives at the end? Was the theology of Job and his three friends erroneous in the first place? Did they end up accusing whom God had cleared? This will give a completely different perspective of suffering.</p> <p>The story isn't over if God doesn't have the last word! What is God's perspective? What is this 'double portion' Job receives at the end? Was the theology of Job and his three friends erroneous in the first place? Did they end up accusing whom God had cleared? This will give a completely different perspective of suffering.</p> The story isn't over if God doesn't have the last word! What is God's perspective? What is this 'double portion' Job receives at the end? Was the theology of Job and his three friends erroneous in the first place? Did they end up accusing whom God had cleared? This will give a completely different perspective of suffering.

]]> 3000 75 1fad18266fddc9d94a0bb545347bd84c no Eugene Smith <p>In part 4 of 5, we examine Job's defence of himself. He claims his innocence. He has committed no sin, so why is he being punished? It seems as if Job's 'theology' was similar to that of his three 'friends': If I live righteously, I will be blessed and If I sin, I will be punished. So why I am being punished if I haven't sinned? There are many today who struggle with the same questions. Maybe we are asking the wrong questions...</p> <p>In part 4 of 5, we examine Job's defence of himself. He claims his innocence. He has committed no sin, so why is he being punished? It seems as if Job's 'theology' was similar to that of his three 'friends': If I live righteously, I will be blessed and If I sin, I will be punished. So why I am being punished if I haven't sinned? There are many today who struggle with the same questions. Maybe we are asking the wrong questions...</p> In part 4 of 5, we examine Job's defence of himself. He claims his innocence. He has committed no sin, so why is he being punished? It seems as if Job's 'theology' was similar to that of his three 'friends': If I live righteously, I will be blessed and If I sin, I will be punished. So why I am being punished if I haven't sinned? There are many today who struggle with the same questions. Maybe we are asking the wrong questions...

]]> 2468 76 eb608fa2ab283ea997905b4269cc75d8 no Eugene Smith <p>Is there any purpose in the deep trials of life? This is Part 3 of 5 from a series that was recorded a long time ago, but the truth endures for all time!</p> <p>Is there any purpose in the deep trials of life? This is Part 3 of 5 from a series that was recorded a long time ago, but the truth endures for all time!</p> Is there any purpose in the deep trials of life? This is Part 3 of 5 from a series that was recorded a long time ago, but the truth endures for all time!

]]> 4047 77 e9434089a593c672302f8fbdb218f09a no Eugene Smith <p>This is an old series that I taught many years ago. This first (out of five) message serves as an introduction to the book that has fascinated me for years. Be encouraged as you venture into this amazing book that asks a lot of hard questions about life!</p> <p>This is an old series that I taught many years ago. This first (out of five) message serves as an introduction to the book that has fascinated me for years. Be encouraged as you venture into this amazing book that asks a lot of hard questions about life!</p> This is an old series that I taught many years ago. This first (out of five) message serves as an introduction to the book that has fascinated me for years. Be encouraged as you venture into this amazing book that asks a lot of hard questions about life!

]]> 3856 78 9de4af13ba2fa84aca769019cb321408 no Eugene Smith <p>Following Abel's worship by faith and Enoch's walk by faith, Noah shows us working by faith. What challenges did he he have to persevere through? Why did he keep going? Noah shows how the knowledge of the future which God has declared is sure, no matter how impossible it would seem. Faith submits to the future God has revealed for he has the power to do it. Thus we work towards it. We work by faith.</p> <p>Following Abel's worship by faith and Enoch's walk by faith, Noah shows us working by faith. What challenges did he he have to persevere through? Why did he keep going? Noah shows how the knowledge of the future which God has declared is sure, no matter how impossible it would seem. Faith submits to the future God has revealed for he has the power to do it. Thus we work towards it. We work by faith.</p> Following Abel's worship by faith and Enoch's walk by faith, Noah shows us working by faith. What challenges did he he have to persevere through? Why did he keep going? Noah shows how the knowledge of the future which God has declared is sure, no matter how impossible it would seem. Faith submits to the future God has revealed for he has the power to do it. Thus we work towards it. We work by faith.

]]> 3277 79 fc376050bf1ecdb13eb9fb0f51946575 no Eugene Smith <p>Enoch is the second example of faith in Heb. 11. Enoch walked by faith. In the midst of a deteriorating and ungodly world, Enoch pleased God. He became a prophet speaking to the world, and developed intimacy with God. How does faith shape our lives so that we may also do the same?</p> <p>Enoch is the second example of faith in Heb. 11. Enoch walked by faith. In the midst of a deteriorating and ungodly world, Enoch pleased God. He became a prophet speaking to the world, and developed intimacy with God. How does faith shape our lives so that we may also do the same?</p> Enoch is the second example of faith in Heb. 11. Enoch walked by faith. In the midst of a deteriorating and ungodly world, Enoch pleased God. He became a prophet speaking to the world, and developed intimacy with God. How does faith shape our lives so that we may also do the same?

]]> 3033 80 9d0bef3032174f6ecec9147ff759916b no Eugene Smith <p>Abel is the first illustration of faith in Hebrews 11. The first evidence of faith is worship. But what constitutes his life of obedience? Of what did his worship consist? Abel is the first in a series of men that lived by faith. But note the order: Abel worshiped by faith. Enoch walked by faith and Noah worked by faith. Let us give ourselves in worship that pleases God.</p> <p>Abel is the first illustration of faith in Hebrews 11. The first evidence of faith is worship. But what constitutes his life of obedience? Of what did his worship consist? Abel is the first in a series of men that lived by faith. But note the order: Abel worshiped by faith. Enoch walked by faith and Noah worked by faith. Let us give ourselves in worship that pleases God.</p> Abel is the first illustration of faith in Hebrews 11. The first evidence of faith is worship. But what constitutes his life of obedience? Of what did his worship consist? Abel is the first in a series of men that lived by faith. But note the order: Abel worshiped by faith. Enoch walked by faith and Noah worked by faith. Let us give ourselves in worship that pleases God.

]]> 3255 81 002a73704a875176a7ce25b0e6b71799 no Eugene Smith <p>To follow the Word of the Lord always requires faith. This is no progress in the work of the Lord without faith. What is it's nature? What does it look like when our lives are submitted to that which God has spoken, but is not yet seen by the natural eye? Let us learn to walk in the way that is pleasing to the Lord.</p> <p>To follow the Word of the Lord always requires faith. This is no progress in the work of the Lord without faith. What is it's nature? What does it look like when our lives are submitted to that which God has spoken, but is not yet seen by the natural eye? Let us learn to walk in the way that is pleasing to the Lord.</p> To follow the Word of the Lord always requires faith. This is no progress in the work of the Lord without faith. What is it's nature? What does it look like when our lives are submitted to that which God has spoken, but is not yet seen by the natural eye? Let us learn to walk in the way that is pleasing to the Lord.

]]> 3548 82 c5172619494c1012880885730d0225b7 no Eugene Smith <p>After the victory, Jehoshaphat led the nation in thanksgiving. The Lord had made them to rejoice. Jehoshaphat proved anew the the God who split the Red Sea can be called upon again to display the same power. This is great comfort to us, for the exodus was no a one-time event, but can be repeated in the lives of his people. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good and his mercy endures forever.</p> <p>After the victory, Jehoshaphat led the nation in thanksgiving. The Lord had made them to rejoice. Jehoshaphat proved anew the the God who split the Red Sea can be called upon again to display the same power. This is great comfort to us, for the exodus was no a one-time event, but can be repeated in the lives of his people. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good and his mercy endures forever.</p> After the victory, Jehoshaphat led the nation in thanksgiving. The Lord had made them to rejoice. Jehoshaphat proved anew the the God who split the Red Sea can be called upon again to display the same power. This is great comfort to us, for the exodus was no a one-time event, but can be repeated in the lives of his people. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good and his mercy endures forever.

]]> 2910 83 91403dd61410d077607b3e1bc839d435 no Eugene Smith <p>The time has come to believe the word of the Lord, to act on it and face the enemy. As King David before him, Jehoshaphat also appoints singers to lead the battle! What a great act of faith! They praised by faith with all earnestness! Never since the time of Jericho had a battle been won with these kinds of results. Let us learn to act in faith as King Jehoshaphat and all of Judah did!</p> <p>The time has come to believe the word of the Lord, to act on it and face the enemy. As King David before him, Jehoshaphat also appoints singers to lead the battle! What a great act of faith! They praised by faith with all earnestness! Never since the time of Jericho had a battle been won with these kinds of results. Let us learn to act in faith as King Jehoshaphat and all of Judah did!</p> The time has come to believe the word of the Lord, to act on it and face the enemy. As King David before him, Jehoshaphat also appoints singers to lead the battle! What a great act of faith! They praised by faith with all earnestness! Never since the time of Jericho had a battle been won with these kinds of results. Let us learn to act in faith as King Jehoshaphat and all of Judah did!

]]> 3357 84 317f7ae96ac1432a1b526a14204afc76 no Eugene Smith <p>After prayer and fasting led by King Jehoshaphat, God mightily answered by a prophetic word through a man named Jahaziel. Who is he and why did God use him to bring the mind of God? This prophetic word contained much revelation, and caused the nation to shift from fear to great rejoicing. Hear about the power of the prophetic word that is birthed in the realm of prayer, fasting and worship.</p> <p>After prayer and fasting led by King Jehoshaphat, God mightily answered by a prophetic word through a man named Jahaziel. Who is he and why did God use him to bring the mind of God? This prophetic word contained much revelation, and caused the nation to shift from fear to great rejoicing. Hear about the power of the prophetic word that is birthed in the realm of prayer, fasting and worship.</p> After prayer and fasting led by King Jehoshaphat, God mightily answered by a prophetic word through a man named Jahaziel. Who is he and why did God use him to bring the mind of God? This prophetic word contained much revelation, and caused the nation to shift from fear to great rejoicing. Hear about the power of the prophetic word that is birthed in the realm of prayer, fasting and worship.

]]> 3245 85 beaa7619d77c191122d02a6a39831216 no Eugene Smith <p>Jehoshaphat led the nation in prayer and fasting in the time of national crisis. He prayed according to the prayer of Solomon four generations earlier. With repentance, he called upon the God of his fathers, with whom God had made covenant. This is the kind of prayer that births revival. There is much for us to learn.</p> <p>Jehoshaphat led the nation in prayer and fasting in the time of national crisis. He prayed according to the prayer of Solomon four generations earlier. With repentance, he called upon the God of his fathers, with whom God had made covenant. This is the kind of prayer that births revival. There is much for us to learn.</p> Jehoshaphat led the nation in prayer and fasting in the time of national crisis. He prayed according to the prayer of Solomon four generations earlier. With repentance, he called upon the God of his fathers, with whom God had made covenant. This is the kind of prayer that births revival. There is much for us to learn.

]]> 2956 86 1ab4e5aa565215c5441b24a2f5cb78bc no Eugene Smith <p>Jehoshaphat, fourth king of Judah, was one of the great kings. But he was not without defects. His saving grace is that he set his heart to seek the Lord. In this first part, we look at the circumstances he inherited, the world in which he lived, and the great challenges that came his way. How is he to respond to the threat of the massive coalition of armies marching against him? Seek the Lord he must!</p> <p>Jehoshaphat, fourth king of Judah, was one of the great kings. But he was not without defects. His saving grace is that he set his heart to seek the Lord. In this first part, we look at the circumstances he inherited, the world in which he lived, and the great challenges that came his way. How is he to respond to the threat of the massive coalition of armies marching against him? Seek the Lord he must!</p> Jehoshaphat, fourth king of Judah, was one of the great kings. But he was not without defects. His saving grace is that he set his heart to seek the Lord. In this first part, we look at the circumstances he inherited, the world in which he lived, and the great challenges that came his way. How is he to respond to the threat of the massive coalition of armies marching against him? Seek the Lord he must!

]]> 2817 87 a1d526f6d8e4ec69477d6b843f589411 no Eugene Smith <p>On an exceeding high mountain, the devil offers Jesus all the kingdoms of the world. Was it his to offer? What was the real agenda of Satan? What was the purpose of God in this? How did Jesus overcome? This is another look at how the heart is probed in times of testing.</p> <p>On an exceeding high mountain, the devil offers Jesus all the kingdoms of the world. Was it his to offer? What was the real agenda of Satan? What was the purpose of God in this? How did Jesus overcome? This is another look at how the heart is probed in times of testing.</p> On an exceeding high mountain, the devil offers Jesus all the kingdoms of the world. Was it his to offer? What was the real agenda of Satan? What was the purpose of God in this? How did Jesus overcome? This is another look at how the heart is probed in times of testing.

]]> 3195 88 cbdaf79e1515992d01055c26cbbc5300 no Eugene Smith <p>Satan uses scripture to test Jesus. Since Jesus is the Son of God, he has authority over angels, so why not leap from the pinnacle of the temple? The forty days in the wilderness has transitioned to the temple where the suggestions of Satan become more subtle. The interpretation of Psalm 91 becomes the battleground for this new kind of temptation. What are the implications behind Satan's suggestion and how did Jesus overcome?</p> <p>Satan uses scripture to test Jesus. Since Jesus is the Son of God, he has authority over angels, so why not leap from the pinnacle of the temple? The forty days in the wilderness has transitioned to the temple where the suggestions of Satan become more subtle. The interpretation of Psalm 91 becomes the battleground for this new kind of temptation. What are the implications behind Satan's suggestion and how did Jesus overcome?</p> Satan uses scripture to test Jesus. Since Jesus is the Son of God, he has authority over angels, so why not leap from the pinnacle of the temple? The forty days in the wilderness has transitioned to the temple where the suggestions of Satan become more subtle. The interpretation of Psalm 91 becomes the battleground for this new kind of temptation. What are the implications behind Satan's suggestion and how did Jesus overcome?

]]> 3463 89 cd195652f20235eaa185755bc5472998 no Eugene Smith <p>The first test in the wilderness Jesus faced was to turn stones into bread. This test is rooted in the manna narrative. What did God intend to teach Israel through this test? As the test continued over forty years, what was God probing deep in their hearts? All of this is brought forward in the simple words Satan whispered to Jesus, "Since you are the Son of God, command these stones to made into bread." Did Jesus understand the full implication of what was behind these simple words? And how did he overcome? Just as Jesus passed through this test, so do his disciples. Let us learn from his example.</p> <p>The first test in the wilderness Jesus faced was to turn stones into bread. This test is rooted in the manna narrative. What did God intend to teach Israel through this test? As the test continued over forty years, what was God probing deep in their hearts? All of this is brought forward in the simple words Satan whispered to Jesus, "Since you are the Son of God, command these stones to made into bread." Did Jesus understand the full implication of what was behind these simple words? And how did he overcome? Just as Jesus passed through this test, so do his disciples. Let us learn from his example.</p> The first test in the wilderness Jesus faced was to turn stones into bread. This test is rooted in the manna narrative. What did God intend to teach Israel through this test? As the test continued over forty years, what was God probing deep in their hearts? All of this is brought forward in the simple words Satan whispered to Jesus, "Since you are the Son of God, command these stones to made into bread." Did Jesus understand the full implication of what was behind these simple words? And how did he overcome? Just as Jesus passed through this test, so do his disciples. Let us learn from his example.

]]> 2922 90 68570a50957610f5aac13708be434980 no Eugene Smith <p>When we are tested in the wilderness, God is looking for certain responses. What is God after? What is the basis of all testing? How does testing in the wilderness relate to the Great Commandment? How was this exemplified in the example of Jesus in the wilderness for forty days?</p> <p>When we are tested in the wilderness, God is looking for certain responses. What is God after? What is the basis of all testing? How does testing in the wilderness relate to the Great Commandment? How was this exemplified in the example of Jesus in the wilderness for forty days?</p> When we are tested in the wilderness, God is looking for certain responses. What is God after? What is the basis of all testing? How does testing in the wilderness relate to the Great Commandment? How was this exemplified in the example of Jesus in the wilderness for forty days?

]]> 3045 91 53b6e3bf0015c56695e8e16cc18d759c no Eugene Smith <p>Why the wilderness? - Why did the Spirit drive Jesus into the wilderness? What is the significance of the wilderness setting? What does God desire to accomplish by sending us there? God deeply yearns to remove anything that causes our hearts to wander from him, so that he may betroth us to himself.</p> <p>Why the wilderness? - Why did the Spirit drive Jesus into the wilderness? What is the significance of the wilderness setting? What does God desire to accomplish by sending us there? God deeply yearns to remove anything that causes our hearts to wander from him, so that he may betroth us to himself.</p> Why the wilderness? - Why did the Spirit drive Jesus into the wilderness? What is the significance of the wilderness setting? What does God desire to accomplish by sending us there? God deeply yearns to remove anything that causes our hearts to wander from him, so that he may betroth us to himself.

]]> 2924 92 6c312bafa0f7e5f5cb40b2d7e06a15e7 no Eugene Smith <p>What is the purpose of temptation? What is God accomplishing? What are Satan's goals? How should the believer respond when faced with trials? Jesus serves as our example as he emerges from the wilderness victoriously!</p> <p>What is the purpose of temptation? What is God accomplishing? What are Satan's goals? How should the believer respond when faced with trials? Jesus serves as our example as he emerges from the wilderness victoriously!</p> What is the purpose of temptation? What is God accomplishing? What are Satan's goals? How should the believer respond when faced with trials? Jesus serves as our example as he emerges from the wilderness victoriously!

]]> 2961 93 7b1527d7b8f76aadb4c4abfff7919178 no Eugene Smith <p>When we enter wilderness experiences, is this the devil attacking us? Or is God leading us? Why would the Holy Spirit lead us to the very place where we will encounter the temptations of Satan? There are two sides to the question, so how do they relate? What shall we do when we are in the wilderness?</p> <p>When we enter wilderness experiences, is this the devil attacking us? Or is God leading us? Why would the Holy Spirit lead us to the very place where we will encounter the temptations of Satan? There are two sides to the question, so how do they relate? What shall we do when we are in the wilderness?</p> When we enter wilderness experiences, is this the devil attacking us? Or is God leading us? Why would the Holy Spirit lead us to the very place where we will encounter the temptations of Satan? There are two sides to the question, so how do they relate? What shall we do when we are in the wilderness?

]]> 3279 94 d5dfe12f1b600de5958948a5e74f1e7b no Eugene Smith <p>Where do we learn fervent and passionate prayer? Is it not in the wilderness where passion is written into our souls in the midst of fiery trial? Many times Jesus retreated in the wilderness for prayer, to the very place where he defeated Satan, and reinforced his decisions that he made there. In the heat of struggle, prayer is forged in our souls, the kind of prayer that pushes back the forces of darkness, and brings the kingdom of heaven.</p> <p>Where do we learn fervent and passionate prayer? Is it not in the wilderness where passion is written into our souls in the midst of fiery trial? Many times Jesus retreated in the wilderness for prayer, to the very place where he defeated Satan, and reinforced his decisions that he made there. In the heat of struggle, prayer is forged in our souls, the kind of prayer that pushes back the forces of darkness, and brings the kingdom of heaven.</p> Where do we learn fervent and passionate prayer? Is it not in the wilderness where passion is written into our souls in the midst of fiery trial? Many times Jesus retreated in the wilderness for prayer, to the very place where he defeated Satan, and reinforced his decisions that he made there. In the heat of struggle, prayer is forged in our souls, the kind of prayer that pushes back the forces of darkness, and brings the kingdom of heaven.

]]> 3429 95 bdb1671b0f55ee7e7cf45ca53033b6f7 no Eugene Smith <p>The wilderness is a kind of baptism. There are lessons that can only be learned in difficult times. What are some of those lessons? Have we learned to hate evil? Have we learned compassion? Have we determined to go to war against unrighteousness? Let us not waste our trials and wilderness experiences. God is using them to turn us into warriors!</p> <p>The wilderness is a kind of baptism. There are lessons that can only be learned in difficult times. What are some of those lessons? Have we learned to hate evil? Have we learned compassion? Have we determined to go to war against unrighteousness? Let us not waste our trials and wilderness experiences. God is using them to turn us into warriors!</p> The wilderness is a kind of baptism. There are lessons that can only be learned in difficult times. What are some of those lessons? Have we learned to hate evil? Have we learned compassion? Have we determined to go to war against unrighteousness? Let us not waste our trials and wilderness experiences. God is using them to turn us into warriors!

]]> 2833 96 92abea4e29f4e0025cdbe4415c96853e no Eugene Smith <p>After Jesus emerged from the forty days in the wilderness, the testing continued in different disguises. Satan takes advantage of anything that is close to our hearts. Jesus maintained his resolution to live by the principles he submitted to while in the wilderness. He maintained his obedience through his ministry, during the passion week and even as he hung on the cross. Because of his obedience, he became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey him.</p> <p>After Jesus emerged from the forty days in the wilderness, the testing continued in different disguises. Satan takes advantage of anything that is close to our hearts. Jesus maintained his resolution to live by the principles he submitted to while in the wilderness. He maintained his obedience through his ministry, during the passion week and even as he hung on the cross. Because of his obedience, he became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey him.</p> After Jesus emerged from the forty days in the wilderness, the testing continued in different disguises. Satan takes advantage of anything that is close to our hearts. Jesus maintained his resolution to live by the principles he submitted to while in the wilderness. He maintained his obedience through his ministry, during the passion week and even as he hung on the cross. Because of his obedience, he became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey him.

]]> 3296 97 190a8ab038efce21444c67d393b27aca no