When Paul wrote to Philemon on a personal matter, he intended the entire church — including us — to receive grace and peace through his words.

Paul is an apostle of Jesus Christ, with all the authority that commission entails. But as he writes to Philemon, he approaches as a friend.

Why did Paul write his letter to Philemon? A delicate matter between a master and his slave becomes teaching that nourishes the worldwide church.

A strong message rings through Paul’s letter to Titus like the toll of a great bell: Let Christians devote themselves to good works in the grace of God.

When good doctrine produces good works, the church flourishes — but dissent and controversies cause division. That worthlessness needs to be stopped.

God’s message of salvation is utterly trustworthy. But what should his promises produce in those who have received them by faith?

By justifying us through Christ’s blood, God has made us heirs of eternal life. But what is that life, and why does it matter?

When we think of God’s grace in salvation, how does justification by faith lead to our adoption as children of God and the gift of eternal life?

When the Bible tells us to be renewed, how is that supposed to happen? The Holy Spirit works in us to make us taste and enjoy God’s great love for us.

Does regeneration come from washing, or does washing come from regeneration? When God gives us new life, he also makes us clean by his power.