How often to you skip ahead to the end of a book? If you are reading a murder-mystery then reading the ending spoils the process of gradual discovery and the author's clever misdirection. The Bible however, contains an incredible image of our future within it's last two chapters - a future where Jesus' life giving water means no death, or sorrow, or pain, and where we are surrounded by God's glory.
For some reason Christian preachers often seem keen to avoid this part of the Bible! Perhaps because it contains some stark (but very necessary) warnings as to the alternative consequences. And yet accepting Jesus' gift of grace is a life-changing, and life-giving decision that deserves examination and provokes praise and adoration.
Talk - 'Life After Death' from Kevin
“I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die. Do you believe this?"
This is perhaps the pivotal question in the bible; asked of Martha, but intended for all our ears. Click here to listen as Kevin talks about that choice, based on the parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus from Luke 16: 19-31.
Worship
Psalm 33 says, "Sing a new song of praise to Him." The poets and song writers of the Bible give expression to our worship and through our modern day hymns and worship songs we can continue to sing of His grace and salvation. Click here to join me and then Kevin in singing to the Lord.
I know some of you like to listen to the playlist during the week, and it is uplifting and good to continue walking with Jesus... so here are some of the highlights of the last few weeks of worship. Click here to listen.
Bible Gateway
Bible Gateway has devotionals, reading plans and a search tool where you can find and compare any verse, word or phrase from pretty much every translation. It is a really useful resource to supplement your study and prayer time. Click here to visit their website.
I will leave you with their current verse for the day, Romans 8: 1-2, which says:
"So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death."