As a child growing up in church it was common to hear sermons expounding on the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus as recorded in the gospel of John. The theme of those sermons was the answer to the question “What must a person do to be born again?” And the popular answer to that question was “To be born again you must believe upon Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.” The preacher emphasized that being born again is a choice that a person makes to follow Christ. In other words, upon being convicted of their sins by the Holy Spirit, a person decides whether or not they want to be born again. That is, a person has free will to accept or reject the new birth being offered to them; they have decisive control over their eternal destination. Some may understand this as the doctrine of self-determination. Continue reading
Author Archives: Steve Pruitt
God’s Hunger
The LORD spoke to Moses, saying, “Command the people of Israel and say to them, My offering, my food for my food offerings, my pleasing aroma, you shall be careful to offer to me at its appointed time.” Numbers 28:1-2 (ESV) Continue reading
God’s Glory
And as soon as Aaron spoke to the whole congregation of the people of Israel, they looked toward the wilderness, and behold, the glory of the LORD appeared in the cloud. Exodus 16:10 (ESV) Continue reading
Glorify the Father
By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. John 15:8 (ESV) Continue reading
Gazing for Glory
And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV) Continue reading
Due His Name
Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; worship the LORD in the splendor of holiness. Psalm 29:2 (ESV)
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Casting Crowns
Around the throne were twenty-four thrones, and seated on the thrones were twenty-four elders, clothed in white garments, with golden crowns on their heads.
Revelation 4:4 (ESV) Continue reading
God’s House
Blessed are those who dwell in your house, ever singing your praise! Selah
Psalm 84:4 (ESV) Continue reading