Life's Inanities and Ironies

As we press onward in our scriptural journey—having reflected on the Tabernacle 's sacred design, its profound symbolism in Hebrews , its evolution into the majestic Temple, and the unbreakable Davidic Covenant that intertwined with it—let's now behold the glorious fulfillment of the New Covenant . For us as conservative Christians, this isn't merely a theological concept but the pinnacle of God's redemptive plan, where Old Testament shadows give way to New Testament substance. Rooted in the prophets and consummated in Jesus, the New Covenant transforms hearts, forgives sins eternally, and establishes an intimate relationship with God. Drawing from Jeremiah 31 , Ezekiel 36 , Hebrews 8-10, and the Gospels, we'll explore its promise, fulfillment, and enduring impact. May this stir our hearts to greater worship of our Covenant-Keeping God. The Promise of the New Covenant in the Old Testament The New Covenant was foretold amid Israel's unfaithfulness under the Old ...

As we build upon our previous discussions—from the Tabernacle 's wilderness origins, its rich symbolism in Hebrews , to its comparison with the grander Temple —let's now focus on the profound interplay between the Davidic Covenant and the Temple. For us as conservative Christians, these elements of Scripture are not isolated historical notes but integral threads in God's redemptive tapestry, weaving together His sovereignty, faithfulness, and messianic hope. Rooted in the infallible Word , particularly 2 Samuel 7 , 1 Chronicles 17, and Psalms like 89 and 132, we'll explore what the Davidic Covenant entails, its direct connection to the Temple, and why this matters for our faith today. May the Holy Spirit illuminate these truths, drawing us closer to the King of kings. What Is the Davidic Covenant? The Davidic Covenant is God's unconditional promise to King David , establishing an everlasting dynasty through his lineage. Revealed during a time of relative peace afte...

As we continue our journey through the sacred architecture of Scripture, building on our explorations of the Tabernacle and its profound symbolism in Hebrews, let's now turn to a thoughtful comparison between the Tabernacle and the Temple . Both stand as monumental testaments to God's desire to dwell among His people, yet they reflect different phases in Israel's history and covenant relationship with the Lord. As conservative Christians, we view these not as mere historical artifacts but as divinely inspired patterns that foreshadow the ultimate temple—Jesus Christ Himself and His body, the Church (John 2:19-21; 1 Corinthians 3:16). Drawing from the infallible Word in Exodus, 1 Kings, 1 Chronicles, and beyond, we'll examine their similarities, differences, construction, purposes, and theological significance. May this deepen our appreciation for God's progressive revelation.   Similarities: Shared Purpose and Design Elements At their core, both the Tabernacle and ...

In our previous reflection on the Tabernacle as described in Exodus , we marveled at its divine design and purpose among the Israelites. Now, let's turn our gaze to the New Testament book of Hebrews, where the Holy Spirit illuminates this ancient structure not merely as history, but as a profound symbol—a "shadow" pointing to the greater realities fulfilled in Jesus Christ. As conservative Christians committed to the authority of Scripture, we find in Hebrews a bridge between the Old and New Covenants , revealing how the Tabernacle prefigures our Savior's redemptive work. This exploration draws directly from Hebrews chapters 8 through 10, encouraging us to see Christ as the ultimate High Priest, Sacrifice, and Mediator . The Tabernacle as a Copy of the Heavenly Sanctuary Hebrews 8:5 declares that the priests who served in the earthly Tabernacle "serve a copy and shadow of the heavenly things." God instructed Moses to build it according to the pattern shown o...

As conservative Christians, we hold the Holy Scriptures as the infallible Word of God, guiding our faith and practice. In the pages of the Old Testament, we find profound truths that not only reveal God's character but also point forward to the ultimate fulfillment in our Lord Jesus Christ. Today, let's delve into the Tabernacle of God —a magnificent structure commanded by the Lord Himself during the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. We'll explore what it was, how it was constructed, and the divine reasons behind its design. May this study deepen our awe for God's holiness and His plan of redemption.   What Was the Tabernacle of God? The Tabernacle, often called the "Tent of Meeting" or "Tabernacle of the Testimony," was the portable sanctuary where God's presence dwelt among His chosen people, the Israelites, during their 40 years in the wilderness. Described in exquisite detail in Exodus chapters 25 through 31 and 35 through 40, it served as ...

Oh, dear readers, have you ever felt the crushing weight of a dream deferred, a longing that gnaws at your soul like an unrelenting storm? Imagine a woman, her eyes swollen from endless tears, her heart a barren wasteland where hope seems to wither away. This is the raw, unfiltered story of Hannah from 1 Samuel 1:1-18—a tale not just of ancient sorrow, but of timeless truth straight from God's inerrant Word . As fundamentalist Christians standing firm in a world awash with compromise, let's dive deep into this passage, letting it stir our spirits and challenge our faith. Scripture isn't a dusty relic; it's alive, sharper than any two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12), and Hannah's journey from desolate barrenness to humble brokenness speaks volumes to us today. The Setting: A Family Fractured by Favor and Famine Picture the dusty hills of Ephraim, where Elkanah, a devout man of God, led his family in faithful worship. But beneath the surface of devotion simmered a cauldr...

 With the obsession with more—more money, more status, more distractions—it's easy to feel perpetually unsatisfied. But what if there was a secret to true contentment , one that doesn't depend on your bank account or the latest headlines? As a conservative Christian living in Indianapolis , I've often turned to Scripture for guidance amid the cultural chaos. Today, let's dive into Philippians 4:10-13 , where the Apostle Paul reveals what I like to call " The Secret Society of the Satisfied ." This isn't some exclusive club with hidden handshakes; it's an open invitation to all who follow Christ, grounded in biblical truth that stands firm against the shifting sands of modern society. Paul's Joy in Faithful Support Paul, writing from the confines of Roman imprisonment, begins with heartfelt rejoicing: "I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it...

 Conservative Christians navigating a world that often feels at odds with our faith, we find solace and guidance in the timeless truths of Scripture . Today, I invite you to join me in exploring Galatians 6:1-5 through this homily-turned-blog post. Titled * How To Heal A Broken Body *, this message draws from the Apostle Paul 's words to the early church, applying them to our modern context. In an era of cultural shifts and spiritual battles, Paul's instructions remind us how to mend the fractures within the body of Christ —His church. We'll unpack the passage verse by verse, weaving in stories, analogies, and practical applications to make it come alive. Let's dive in, standing firm on God's unchanging Word. The Analogy of the Broken Oak: Understanding Our Wounds Picture this: A majestic oak tree on a family farm in the heart of Indiana , much like those resilient giants along the Wabash River . For decades, it has withstood blizzards, droughts, and the relentless...

 In the heart of ancient Jerusalem, amid the dust and determination of a people rebuilding what was lost, a profound drama unfolds. It's a story not just of bricks and mortar, but of resolve, deception, and divine purpose. Nehemiah 6:1-4 isn't merely a historical footnote—it's a battle cry for today's Conservative Christians navigating a culture that lures us from our posts with promises of peace and progress. If you're weary from the cultural wars, from defending biblical marriage , the sanctity of life , or the authority of Scripture in a relativistic age, this is for you. Pull up a chair, open your Bible, and let's explore why we must ** stay on the wall **. The Siege of Subtlety: Recognizing the Enemy's Ploys Imagine the scene: Jerusalem's protective walls, once symbols of God's covenant with His people, reduced to rubble after years of exile and disobedience. Enter Nehemiah , a humble cupbearer in the Persian court, whose heart breaks for his ...

In the hustle of modern life—where notifications ping like enemy fire and headlines scream doom—it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters. As conservative Christians , we fight hard for biblical values : the sanctity of life, the definition of marriage, the pursuit of justice in a fallen world. But amid the battles, are we staring at the wrong horizon? Drawing from Acts 1:3-11 , this post explores the Ascension of Jesus and a piercing angelic question: *What are you looking at?* It's a call to refocus on the mission that outlasts elections and cultures. If you're weary from scrolling through culture-war casualties or praying for revival that feels delayed, pull up a chair. Let's unpack this ancient scene and apply it to our Indiana winters and beyond. (Shoutout to my fellow Hoosiers—yes, even in Indianapolis , the Gospel calls us outward.) The Proofs and the Promise: Forty Days of Resurrection Reality Picture the disciples: battle-scarred from betrayal, crucifixion...