The most important thing to know about this passage is Paul is not introducing a new ordering of the households. Instead, Paul is offering commentary on an already existing household code. Paul is inserting Christians values into what the Colossians would have recognized as Greco-Roman “household codes.” Ultimately, no matter what your family structure looks, you can apply the Household Codes most faithfully not by using them to reinforce power structures and hierarchy, but instead by using them to break down barriers and create a family where all members are valued and treated with respect.
In our intimate and communal relationships God wants us to clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility and justice.
Title: Casting Down Fire and other Unreasonable Things Text: Luke 9:51-62 There are moments in our lives when our deepest beliefs are called into question. When the Samaritans rejected Jesus, James and John wanted to call down fire and consume the village. Rage, shame, and fear can cause us to want to do unreasonable things, but Jesus models a different path.
It is difficult for Western Christians today to understand what the Bible means by demon possession. However, most of us have had the experience of powerful forces, sometimes inside us and sometimes outside of us, taking over. It could be a medical condition like depression or an addiction. Mark 5 reminds us that whether it is addictions or evil spirits or compulsions---- demons are not what Jesus wants for us. Because Every time Jesus encounters them, he tells them to get lost and he sends them packing.
Pastor Michael talks about his Doctoral work and how his experience has changed and shaped how we approach ministry to and with students and parents at First Baptist.
No day in the church year is as ripe for Nostalgia as Pentecost. On Pentecost, it is easy to reminisce and focus on retelling the story of Acts 2 and the day the Holy Spirit came down. It is a great story with wind and fire and speaking in tongues. However, we don't celebrate Pentecost just to reminisce. We celebrate the work of the Spirit NOW- in our church and in our lives!
