Today I write about something that has potential to be challenging to understand and something genuine Christians may disagree with--the reason I am not preaching Mark 16:9-20. All Scripture is breathed out by God and is profitable (2 Timothy 3:16). But the reason I'm not preaching Mark 16:9-20 is because I can't in good conscience … Continue reading Why I Won’t Be Preaching Mark 16:9-20
Today, I'm writing about an interesting tidbit related to how long Jesus was in the tomb. I have no goal to share it other than that I think it's interesting and satisfying to my curiosity. Let me set the oddity of how long Jesus was dead on stage for you. The traditional, face-value answer to … Continue reading How Long Was Jesus Dead?
This Sunday, I'll be preaching Mark 14:43-72. Spoiler alert, this text is heartbreaking. In it, Jesus is lied about struck in the face, refuses to defend Himself against lies, then admits to His true identity in a way that essentially seals His death. Meanwhile, Peter, Jesus' top follower and leader of the rest of the … Continue reading Initial Thoughts on Mark 14:53-72
I am often tired, but Christ is not, and He will be my strength. I am often tempted, but Christ is not any more, and He has triumphed over temptation and will make a way for me to escape. I am often anxious, but Christ is not, and He will still my soul. I am … Continue reading I Am Often ___, But Christ Is Not
One topic that has come up since my series of sermons called "Who Leads the Church?" is that of women in the diaconate. ("Diaconate" is a word referring to a group of deacons.) If you haven't heard the message about deacons from that series, it's available here. Before you continue, know that what follows is … Continue reading The Role of Women in the Diaconate
Pastor Jacob’s Blog 