To understand the tax collectors of Jesus’ day and how they were viewed by their fellow Jews, we must first gain some insight into tax system in Israel. At the time of Jesus, Israel was under Roman occupation, and Rome exercised its authority over Israel by placing governors over some of its provinces (e.g., the … Continue reading Jesus, Friend of Sinners
The Exclusivity of Christ: A Compassionate and Humble Doctrine
As you share the gospel with your friends, family members, classmates, and business colleagues, you may find that they tolerate much of your worldview until you press the point that Jesus is the one true Savior and the only one who can deliver them from eternal judgment and bring them into right relationship with God. In … Continue reading The Exclusivity of Christ: A Compassionate and Humble Doctrine
Replacing Christ with Spiritual Growth
Are there times when our desire for spiritual growth could hinder us from walking in the truth of the gospel? For Christians serious about making progress in their spiritual lives, such a question sounds either intuitively wrong-headed or so easy to answer that it doesn't even merit a response. Growth in godliness and right affections is one of … Continue reading Replacing Christ with Spiritual Growth
"Listening to them and Asking Them Questions": The Humility and Wisdom of Jesus
Jesus, the embodiment of Divine wisdom and the source of all knowledge, sat as a young man among the religious leaders and listened carefully and asked questions (Luke 2:46). In the Incarnation, the eternal Son of God humbled himself and took on the fullness of humanity. What man truly is, Jesus truly is. And as … Continue reading "Listening to them and Asking Them Questions": The Humility and Wisdom of Jesus
