Eternal Life is Worth Earthly Hardship.
But the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and the more they spread abroad. And the Egyptians were in dread of the people of Israel. So they ruthlessly made the people of Israel work as slaves and made their lives bitter with hard service, in mortar and brick, and in all kinds of work in the field. In all their work they ruthlessly made them work as slaves. (Exodus 1:12-14 ESV) What is celebrated in one generation may barely be tolerated in the next. Jacob and his sons had come… Read More
How to Approach the Book of Revelation
The book of Revelation is often viewed through the lens of apocalyptic allegory – as if only a select few can understand its hidden meanings, and that only with a special decoder ring or end-time chart. The Revelation of Jesus Christ is actually a letter. The aged Apostle John had been banished to the Island of Patmos for his proclamation of Jesus Christ. While there he received a vision(s) from God, revealing many things regarding “what was” (the past), “what is” (the present), and “what is to come” (the future). John, a… Read More
The Return of Jesus, Although Unpredictable, is Certain!
For as the lightning comes from the east and shines as far as the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. (Matthew 24:27 ESV) Suddenly. Growing up in Tampa, Florida I came to know the power and beauty of lightning. Storms were a normal part of life there. During certain times of the year it was not unusual to have a daily thunderstorm roll through, complete with thunder and lightning. Generally, storms could be anticipated. Dark clouds would begin to accumulate, the wind would pick up, and the… Read More
Honesty and Hope Are Not Mutually Exclusive
Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. (Luke 21:33 ESV) Hope without honesty leads to despair. Jesus always gave people hope, but He never withheld the sometimes harsh realities that would be encountered along the way. In Luke 21 Jesus spoke in detail about the impending persecution that awaited His followers. He told them of wars, destruction, and oppression. He challenged them to be ready, to be strong, and to be on guard. Typically people either sway toward “ignorant bliss,” where everything should have fairy tale… Read More
Pastor Dale Jenkins 