Although not as well known as Matthew’s “Sermon on the Mount,” Luke’s “Sermon on the Plain” contains Jesus’ essential teachings about the Kingdom of God. True belief means the willingness to love even one’s enemies. Just as God forgave […]

  Isaiah 40 marks the turning point in the book of Isaiah, as the prophecy transitions from judgment to restoration. This verse is the climax of the chapter, as Isaiah outlines the basic hope available to those who place their […]

  This verse is often referred to as Luke’s “Great Commission” (Luke was the author of both the Gospel bearing his name as well as the Book of Acts). In just a few words, this verse is simultaneously a description […]

  Along with verse 3, this verse serves as the introduction to a section where Peter encourages his readers to seek spiritual maturity. Peter grounds this encouragement in the promises of God, especially the promise of union with God. A […]

  Psalm 55:22 is a song of lament. It is unique because it deals not only with difficult circumstances, but the betrayal by a friend and fellow believer. The Psalm moves from despair to hope as the psalmist anticipates the […]

  Psalm 37 is a song of wisdom that reflects on the blessings of the promised land. David observes that while the wicked may seem to be prosperous, in the end they will be cut off from the land and […]