Today, as in Christ's earthly ministry, people respond to Jesus in many ways. Some follow Him only for earthly benefits, not as a Saviour. Others reject His "hard" words about being the Bread of Life and turn away. But Peter says, "Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life." We ask: will you walk away when Christ's claims cross your desires, or will you come to Him, feed on Him by faith, and find in Him the only One who can truly satisfy and give eternal life?

John calls us to marvel at the Father's astonishing love, that sinners are not only forgiven but adopted as His children. Those who abide in Christ can look forward to His return with confidence, not fear or shame. Though we do not yet see all our future glory, we know that when Christ appears we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. This hope is not just comforting but purifying, moving every true child of God to pursue holiness as we wait to see the Lord face to face.

As David's life drew to a close, we consider a detailed, fascinating account of the remarkable warriors who stood beside King David. From his top three military leaders to the full roster of thirty-seven loyal men, this study shows us how these distressed and ordinary followers became extraordinary through their loyalty. We too will grow in grace if we are loyal to the Lord Jesus Christ, and stand for and with Him in all of life's battles.

Gamaliel warned the Jewish council that if the apostles' message is from God, no human power can overthrow it, if they oppose it, they will be fighting against God. Saul was also stopped in his tracks by the risen Christ, who asked, "Why persecutest thou me?" Saul discovered that to attack Christ's people is to wage war on Christ, a battle no one can win. Yet instead of destroying him, Jesus humbles, forgives, and transforms him into Paul the apostle. If we resist God's truth and grace, such opposition cannot succeed. We must lay down our arms and surrender to Christ.

The Apostle John urges us to abide in the truth about Christ in a world that is passing and full of spiritual danger, with many "antichrists" and false teachers denying who Jesus really is. To abide in Christ is to remain in the truth about Him, resist lies that distort His person and work, and continue in fellowship with the Father and the Son so that we may have confidence at His coming. We must test all teaching by Scripture, cling to the biblical Christ, and live in daily dependence on Him.

As David neared the end of his life, he looks back on God's repeated deliverances from danger, enemies, and death. He testified that his Lord is his rock, fortress, rescuer, and strength. In rich poetry and vivid images, David shows God's power and safety in trouble. This God of salvation, rewards integrity, and humbles the proud. The Lord Jesus Christ, also passed through the greatest danger, death itself, and now saves all who trust in Him. Is He your personal deliverer?

One of the Bible's most beautiful pictures of grace is shown in Joseph's remarkable response to his brothers who betrayed him. Human nature expects revenge, but God displays forgiveness; justice alone would condemn, but grace triumphs with mercy. His compassion, provision, and the reconciliation He gives foreshadow the infinitely greater grace of Christ, who forgave His enemies and offers salvation to all who come to Him.

Paul told young Timothy "great is the mystery of Godliness". How are we to "exercise ourselves unto Godliness"? Helpful answers are given in the many imperatives that are contained in the New Testament epistles. We consider what true Godliness is, and how we must chase after it.

God will dwell eternally with His people in a new creation, fulfilling the covenant established through Christ. This reality is secured solely by God's sovereign power and the finished work of Jesus on the cross, not human merit. The destruction of sin, death, and suffering, will ensure believers a future of perfect joy and uninterrupted fellowship with the Divine. We are to focus on the tangible glory and presence of God, rejecting worldly distractions and living in hopeful anticipation of this eternal union. This assurance provides comfort and motivation for holy living as believers await their final home in heaven.

Three men wanted to follow Jesus, but had reservations holding them back. They provide lessons for all who would follow Jesus or enter into deeper serve for him.