Introduction: This Lord’s Day we are commemorating the beginning of the great Reformation of the 16th century. It is fitting, therefore, that we take this opportunity to begin our study of the book of Galatians, that great charter of Christian freedom. We need to stand fast in the liberty Christ brought to us, and we …
The Covenant Home #4/Sketch of a Godly Wife
Introduction: We should recall that a firm understanding of the husband’s federal responsibilities does not diminish in any way a woman’s personal responsibility to be a godly wife, but rather provides a firm foundation for her. The Text: “An excellent wife is the crown of her husband, but she who causes shame is like rottenness in …
As We Bow to Each Other
“At thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore” (Ps. 16: 11) The Basket Case Chronicles #200 “I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,) that ye submit yourselves unto such, and to every …
Surveying the Text/Malachi
Introduction: This book is of uncertain date, and is probably to be located sometime in the fifth century B.C. The problems that are addressed in the book are also problems in the time of Ezra and Nehemiah, and are addressed there as well. They include, but are not limited to, corrupt priests, mixed marriages, failure …
Surveying the Text/Zechariah
Introduction: This portion of the Word of God came to us through Zechariah, son of Berechiah. For our purposes here, we will not assume any textual error in Matt. 23:35 where Jesus says that Zechariah, son of Berechaiah, was murdered between the temple and the altar. This had also happened to Zechariah, son of Jehoidah, in 2 …
A Sketch of a Godly Husband/A Covenant Home 3
INTRODUCTION: Our sketch of a godly husband is not to be based upon a particular set of cultural assumptions, or on certain notions created by the false elevation of certain personality types. As with everything, we must turn to the Word of God for guidance. THE TEXT: “An excellent wife is the crown of her …
Surveying the Text/Haggai
Introduction: Haggai’s name means “festal,” and this gives us a key note for the book. Like other prophets, he rebukes the sins of the people. But unlike most other prophets, the people listen to him, and he promises great glory to come. What we know about Haggai is found in this book, and in Ezra …
Common Sins in Marriage/The Covenant Home 2
Introduction: As we consider some common sins committed in marriage by both men and women, remember the context of federal headship. The responsibility for all these sins lies with the husband. A woman can and should recognize her individual sins before the Lord; her husband’s overarching responsibility should in no way lessen her sense of …
Play the Man
“At thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore” (Ps. 16: 11) The Basket Case Chronicles #199 “Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. Let all your things be done with charity” (1 Cor. 16:13–14). Nearing the end of this epistle, Paul gives a small burst of ethical exhortations. …
Surveying the Text/Zephaniah
Introduction: As with many of the other minor prophets, what we know about the author of the book is basically contained within the book. This book begins with an unusual genealogy, one which means that Zephaniah is probably the great-grandson of King Hezekiah, which would place him in the tribe of Judah. From the nature …