Scripture exhorts us to love out of a pure heart (1
Tim. 1:5). Christian love is to be without hypocrisy (Rom.
12:9); it is to love “even as” the Lord loves us (John 13:35).
We are commanded to have a love that is fervent and
sincere (1 Pet. 1:22), as well as one that is ever increasing
(1 Thess. 3:12). True love is an attitude of the heart and
will that mus...

Ephesians 1:3-14 is one very, very long sentence in the original language, consisting of about 202 Greek words. Understand it has to be large because of the subject matter. Blessed, blessed, blessed – that is how this section of Scripture begins (See Ephesians 1:3). Then the apostle Paul unpacks truckload after truckload of truth as it concerns the salvation and victory in Je...

(Editor’s Note: A couple of weeks ago, part 1 of this article was offered. I thought it would be a good idea for you to see the rest – Mike).

16. If your congregation offers Bible class, be sure to attend. (Acts 2:42; Colossians 4:16)

17. Follow along in your own Bible during the lesson. (Acts 17:11)

18. Repent of any sins exposed during the sermon. (Psal...

1. Go to bed a little earlier on Saturday night so you can come rested and ready to worship. (Ecclesiastes 5:1)

2. Read or listen to five Psalms when you wake up to prepare your heart for worship (e.g., Psalm 120– 124).

3. Pray for your congregation on your way to worship. (1 Thessalonians 5:25)

4. Come early and greet people as they arrive. (1 Corinthian...