This verse indicates that Jesus’ statement in the previous verse, “Do not judge,” is not a prohibition of judgment in general but rather a prohibition of a certain kind of judging.  Christians are to exercise judgment and discernment, but to […]

This instruction concludes Peter’s “first Christian sermon” on the day of Pentecost.  His emphasis on repentance and baptism reflects the ministry of John the Baptist (Matthew 3:1) and Jesus (Matthew 4:17), and also Jesus’ instructions in the Great Commission (Matthew […]

Although Paul frequently spoke of salvation as a future event (Romans 5:9-10) or a present process (1 Corinthians 1:18), here he states emphatically that it is a completed action with a present effect.  We receive this salvation solely on the […]

Romans 12:9-21 contains a series of instructions for believers as we seek to love one another in the church, and this verse about sincere love sets the stage for these instructions.  The word “genuine” is a good translation of a […]

Psalm 141 is a song of lament.  David prays for judgment on the wicked, and he also prays for protection and guidance for the righteous.  One of the more interesting aspects of this psalm that distinguishes it from many other […]

Isaiah 46 is a prophecy of the coming destruction of Babylon.  Isaiah calls for Israel to believe that God will deliver them from their oppressors.  Just as God created his people and was sovereign over their birth and infancy, he […]