In redemption, we are graciously enabled to partake of the divine nature (v4). This does not mean we become equal to God, but that we begin to reflect His character through godly living. But which aspects of God’s character are we to imitate? In this final study in theology proper, we explore the difference between God’s communicable attributes—those He enables us to reflect—and His incommunicable attributes, which belong to Him alone as the infinite Creator. Peter reminds us that this transformation is not self-produced, but flows from a true and living knowledge of God through Jesus Christ.
Does God ever experience mood swings the way we do? If the Lord is immutable and cannot change, can anything in creation truly affect Him? In this study of divine impassibility, we consider what it means that God is “without passions,” why this truth is theologically necessary, firmly rooted in the language of Scripture, consistent with historic Christian faith, and deeply sanctifying for the believer, especially, with regard to our steadfastness and self-control. This doctrine also sheds light on why the incarnation was necessary for our salvation as well as the constancy of God’s love toward His elect and His hatred for sin.
Paul’s message in 1 Corinthians 2:1–5 is that genuine faith must rest on God’s power, not human wisdom. In a culture obsessed with eloquence, status, and intellectual achievement, Paul deliberately rejected rhetorical showmanship and resolved to preach only Jesus Christ and Him crucified. Though he ministered in weakness, fear, and trembling, the Holy Spirit powerfully worked through Paul's gospel ministry to transform lives. Paul’s example teaches that God often displays His strength through human weakness. Therefore, believers should build their faith on Christ alone, trusting God’s power rather than personalities, performance, experiences, or human ability.
The church's greatest need is not better philosophy, more impressive speakers, or superior rhetoric, rather, a deeper understanding of Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross.
He who forsakes the pursuit of a good conscience walks in darkness and enjoys no fellowship with God.
There are no civilians in the spiritual battlefield. The devil opposes all who trust and follow Christ, and we must resist him since we are all soldiers of Christ
God cares for His people by providing faithful shepherds to lead and nurture His church. In Scripture, believers are described as sheep, and church leaders are called to shepherd the flock willingly, eagerly, and not for selfish gain. Their role is not to rule harshly, but to lead by godly example through love for God, obedience to His Word, and faithful living. This lesson reminds us that receiving shepherding care means humbly being part of Christ’s church, learning from faithful leaders, and ultimately looking to Jesus, the Chief Shepherd, who will reward faithfulness when He returns.
God cares for His people by providing faithful shepherds to lead and nurture His church. In Scripture, believers are described as sheep, and church leaders are called to shepherd the flock willingly, eagerly, and not for selfish gain. Their role is not to rule harshly, but to lead by godly example through love for God, obedience to His Word, and faithful living. This lesson reminds us that receiving shepherding care means humbly being part of Christ’s church, learning from faithful leaders, and ultimately looking to Jesus, the Chief Shepherd, who will reward faithfulness when He returns.
Suffering for Christ is not something strange, but something believers should expect in a fallen world. When Christians face persecution for the sake of righteousness, they are sharing in the sufferings of Christ and are called to rejoice, knowing they are blessed and that God’s Spirit rests upon them. Such trials test and strengthen genuine faith, producing endurance and proving our hope in Him. Rather than being ashamed, believers glorify God, entrust their souls to Him as the righteous Judge, and continue doing what is right. This lesson reminds us that Christians can and should rejoice even in persecution, trusting God’s purposes and His promised glory to come.
An Israelite woman prays for a son, whom she promises to give to the LORD; when God answers her prayer with Samuel, God is also planning to use this son in great ways as His servant.
Naomi and Ruth, return to Israel with an unknown future. How does God care for and bless these two widows once Boaz, a family relative, meets Ruth?
Israel has continued to do evil in the sight of the LORD, but God uses Samson to deliver them from the Philistines, despite Samson’s and Israel’s failings.
