What does the Bible have to say about alcohol- For many Christians in our part of the world, this question proves divisive. Even so, we want to consider the issue from a biblical perspective. We won't be able to examine everything the Bible explains on the subject, but in the text before us, it's worth noting that Paul says, -And do not get drunk with wine,- not, -And do not drink wine.- Let's start considering what Scripture says to understand why.

From our Sunday morning Bible readings.

One problem some churches have is toleration of sin. In Thyatira, for instance, a woman began advocating it in the congregation. Instead of rebuking such nonsense, the church tolerated it for some time, a fact which encouraged some to engage in her sin. The Lord's message tonight is those who would tolerate such iniquity in their midst.

What does it mean that God is sovereign, and what does it have to do with the doctrines of grace- In this sermon Bruce Allen explains that God has the right to rule and reign.

From our Sunday morning Bible readings.

Churches are often a mixed bag. In this case, persecution and the church's overall faithfulness made the church of Pergamum a praiseworthy church. However, it also had worldly influences. This message from our Lord is to this and any church in this state.

How can we walk with the wisdom of God- Can we figure out His will so we're walking wisely in this world- Today, we see that wisdom is available for the Christian to understand both the way and the will of the Lord.

From our Sunday morning Bible readings.

Christians throughout the millennia have suffered for the faith, and they continue to suffer today. What encouragement does our Lord offer a church under such intense pressure- In this letter, we see Him address such a church- those suffering must know that they have a sovereign, omniscient, and comforting Lord.

God is light, and the first verse of this chapter says, -Therefore be imitators of God.- As such, it's interesting here that we talk also about the behavior of believers in terms of light, as we are the -beloved children- of the light -Cf. 1 The 5-5-. Just as we imitated God in love, now we follow the path that the Lord Jesus Christ illuminates for us. As such, we'll see in these verses a command to walk within the light -vv. 7-10- and to walk shining the light -vv. 11-14-.