The primary purpose of this blog post is to show the reader how Matthew uses the exodus event in Hosea 11:1 as a type of second exodus, and to show how this understanding of the Hosea quotation reveals a deep commitment of God in His plan of redemption for His people…
Read MoreTo submit to becoming an exile and leaving your identity is painful, but to those Israelites who did so, it meant life and per Jeremiah 29, God was clearly with them in their exile. He had plans for their best to the benefit of everyone around them. It was a turning point for the nation of Israel…
Read MoreDying to self involves handing our plans over to God, knowing that whatever He wills to do with them is for His glory and our good. To be clear, it is not inherently wrong to make plans. In fact, there can be much wisdom in planning. However, the heart-revealing question to ask when we start to formulate an agenda is this: are my plans held with clenched fists, or open hands that are willing to submit to whatever God tells me to do?..
Read MoreJesus gives us a different example: a life of obedience to God the Father. He lived a life of both action and submission. He performed miracles and took the initiative to challenge false views of God, all while making it clear that He was submitted to the will of the Father…
Read MoreI was a lazy Christian, neglecting my mind, and in serious danger of loving a god of my imagination, rather than God as He has revealed Himself through the Bible. Without any real direction on Bible study, I continued this mindless path until I came to the Village Community Church (VCC). At VCC, I have found that knowing God as He has revealed Himself in Scripture is the fuel of my affection for Him…
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