Nic @ Night 3: Religion vs. Gospel

Nicodemus was very religious. And this was a major obstacle preventing him from receiving the teaching and understanding the message of Jesus. Here’s a wonderful contrast between RELIGION and THE GOSPEL by Tim Keller: RELIGION: I obey, therefore I’m accepted. THE GOSPEL: I’m accepted, therefore I obey. RELIGION: Motivation is based on fear and insecurity. THE GOSPEL: Motivation is … More Nic @ Night 3: Religion vs. Gospel

Nic @ Night 2: Religion Isn’t Enough

Reposted from 2012. To kick off the new year, we’re exploring one of my favorite “Christ Encounters” in the Gospels — Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus. Here’s how the clandestine story begins: There was a man named Nicodemus, a Jewish religious leader who was a Pharisee.  After dark one evening, he came to speak with Jesus. “Rabbi,” … More Nic @ Night 2: Religion Isn’t Enough

A Tale of Two Buildings (1 Peter 2:4-11)

There are two major building projects undertaken in the story of Scripture — they both continue today. In our study of 1 Peter we discover that each believer is called to be a part of God’s “spiritual temple” He is building. In the OT era, God’s healing, forgiving presence dwelled in the physical temple in Jerusalem. People … More A Tale of Two Buildings (1 Peter 2:4-11)

Political Fervor & Christian Apathy

This is a timely repost from about 2011 when MainStreet was just getting launched. It was during another local election season where people were passionately campaigning for and against a school referendum. You can sense my urgency and deep burden for our local community.  Regardless how we vote on November 8, may we vote Jesus leader of our lives … More Political Fervor & Christian Apathy

“I Approve this Message!”(1 Peter 1:22-2:3)

Tonight will be the third and final presidential debate between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump. It promises to be another 2 hours of childish mudslinging and below-the-belt personal attacks. This election cycle has become such a circus (or train wreck) that people are watching in record numbers. Young people are throwing viewing parties much like … More “I Approve this Message!”(1 Peter 1:22-2:3)

Squirrel Spirituality

Here’s a timely repost from 2010. -JB It’s that time of year again.  The leaves are turning colors and the trees are raining down acorns like rogue astroids in our backyard. They’re more plentiful this year than ever before at our home.  I literally need to shovel off the deck every morning to avoid a … More Squirrel Spirituality