by Tremper Longman III, Discipleship Journal, Issue #89 September/October 1995

Everyone who reads the Bible interprets the text. Unfortunately, however, the Bible is not always easy to understand. Even when the text seems straightforward, we may feel uncertain that our interpretation is right. All of us want to treat the Word of God with the respect it deserves, and we certainly don’t want to read into it things that are not there. For these reasons, we need to apply the basic principles of hermeneutics—the science of interpretation—as we read the text. Read the rest of this entry »

Luke 2:1-7, “Jesus came in humility” [Listen]

I would like to ask a simple question this morning. Why did Jesus come in humility? Read the rest of this entry »

We have a great deal in common with the Old Testament characters we read about. They were looking forward to the coming of the Messiah – the One who would rescue them and establish his kingdom. Upon his arrival this King would decisively free his people – there would be no turning back. Read the rest of this entry »

Luke 1:26-38, “Mary, recipient of God’s favor” [Listen]

The passage today explains how Mary was introduced to the role God had for her. We’re going to find out what it means to be favored by God – perhaps not mean what you think. Read the rest of this entry »

Matthew 6:5-10, “the Lord’s prayer” – part 1 [Listen]

This section is familiar to many and very profound. The Lord’s prayer (or the Disciples Prayer) gives us a glimpse into how Jesus would have us pray and what we should pray for. Read the rest of this entry »

Matthew 5:38-48, “eye for eye and tooth for tooth” [Listen]

How we react to our “enemies” is a barometer of our spiritual maturity. Read the rest of this entry »