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Bible & Theology

The Son’s Eternal Glory: Understanding Jesus in Hebrews 1

Can I confess something? For a long time, I was scared of the first chapter of Hebrews. I had heard over and over again that it was one of the most powerful texts on the full divinity of Jesus, but when I read it, it seemed to be anything but that. “In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. The Son is...

Steve Lambert

How Does James Speak of the Law?

Wyatt Graham

In 1:19–2:26, James develops his central theme: “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (James 1:22). For James, overcoming temptations and persevering through trials centers on doing good works in light of “the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.” Throughout this section, James repeatedly defines the standard of good works by the Law (James 1:25; 2:8, 2:9, 2:10, 2:11, 2:12; only elsewhere in James 4:11). He refers to it variously as the law of liberty or freedom, the royal law, or simply the law. What exactly does James by law in its...

What Does Paul Mean by Filling Up What Is Lacking in Christ’s Afflictions?

Wyatt Graham

Every Christian who studies Colossians eventually stumbles upon a puzzling verse. Paul writes, “in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church” (Col 1:24). This statement can stop us in our tracks. After all, didn’t Jesus accomplish everything necessary for our salvation? What could possibly be “lacking” in Christ’s afflictions? The answer lies in understanding two profound theological truths that shaped Paul’s ministry and can transform our view of Christian suffering today. Christ’s Living Body on Earth The first key comes from Paul’s encounter with Jesus...

The Ministry of Small Things

Reuben Bredenhof

It has become a Christian motto: “Attempt great things for God.” Some people are even surprised that this saying isn’t found in the Bible! As disciples of Christ, we’ve been encouraged to aim high: go on a mission trip, give away your fortune, or become a street evangelist. Wanting to rise above the comfortable and predictable is far better than making an idol of our personal comfort and ease. But we don’t have to be notable or do notable things. In the pursuit of meaningful service for Christ, oftentimes the little things are the big things. I’d like to illustrate...

What Does Jude Mean by Contending for the Faith?

Wyatt Graham

Most Christians know of Jude’s admonition to “contend for the faith” (Jude 1:3). And many have seen in Jude’s words a motivation or command to fight heresy to uphold the faith. It makes sense. Jude undoubtedly spends considerable time warning his audience against those who would pervert the grace of God in their sensuality (Jude 1:4, 5–19). But the question is whether or not Jude’s polemics represent what it means to contend for the faith or if Jude might have something else in mind. In my view, the structure of Jude’s letter and the meaning of his words lead to...

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