Search Results

Baptism is believers’ act of obedience to the command of Jesus and a public testimony of our commitment to follow Him. If you have trusted in Jesus Christ as your Savior but have never been baptized, discuss the possibility with your pastor. It is a wonderful way to show others that you now belong to Jesus.

The third aspect Paul emphasizes in these verses is the importance of self-examination (v. 28). It is not necessary to be sinless to have the Lord’s Supper—for then no one could participate. But we are called to have hearts focused on Jesus and remove barriers to fellowship with each other as part of the observance of this sacred meal.

Today’s church is being tested in this area when it comes to marriage. It should make little difference to the church whether same sex marriage is acceptable to the culture at large or legally recognized by the state. God is the one who sets the standard (Rom. 1:24–27). What is legal may not necessarily be right in God’s eyes.

Church discipline begins with individuals who hold one another accountable and seek reconciliation (Matt. 18:15). If you need to talk to someone, first ask the Spirit to examine your heart and confess any sin. Then seek out the other person in a spirit of humility and reconciliation, praying that God will work to bring about repentance and...

We can easily find reasons to be irritated with one another. We need to be intentional and prayerful if we want to agitate one another in the direction of love. As we conclude our study this month, pray that God will strengthen your church and strengthen your love, commitment, and service to Him there.

How do you minister to a family member who isn’t a believer without causing division?

Few paid attention to Jesus’ birth at the time, even though it changed history. Later in Matthew, Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a mustard seed, “the smallest of all seeds” (13:32). The works of God often begin as small things that are easily overlooked. In what small things might God’s work be growing in your life? How can you nurture...

Although we do not like to admit it, studies show that nearly every person is biased in some way. Against whom might you be biased? Whom might you have a difficult time welcoming as part of the kingdom of God? Remember that Jesus loves even them and calls them to come to Him. How might you pray for them and reach out in love?

Throughout Matthew, Peter makes mistake after mistake. Nevertheless, Jesus says that Peter is “blessed” and will be part of the foundation for His church (v. 17–18). Indeed, Peter became central in the church’s growth (see Acts 2). Jesus has the power to redeem our shortcomings. Pray that He will redeem yours to strengthen His church.

What earthly goods or status do you most desire? Does your desire hinder you from following Jesus? Pray that God would help you to loosen your grip on anything that might keep you from pursuing His kingdom with your fullest devotion. And give thanks to the God of salvation with whom “all things are possible” (v. 26).