Numbers

Be Transformed

February 13, 2025 by Tim Sherfy

There are many verses and phrases in the Bible that we read, but never take the time to consider what they mean. One example would be Romans 12:2, where Paul exhorts us to not be conformed to this age but to be transformed. I know we don’t understand this verse because simple observation reveals most Christians are living lives of conformity to the world rather than demonstrating any kind of transformation.

be transformed,discipleship,Hell,priorities,repentance,salvation,surrender

To be a follower of Jesus demands we abandon the way things used to be and embrace the superior way of the Father (Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:9-10). Transformation is not a one-time decision; it is a lifelong change of direction that requires a 180-degree turn in every area of our lives (Luke 9:23; 2 Corinthians 5:17). We turn from our desires and towards God’s holy plan.

[Read more…] about Be Transformed

Who Do You Think You Are?

November 4, 2024 by Tim Sherfy

Who do you think you are? That’s not a recommended conversation starter, but I think it’s a question we should often ask ourselves and others. In a world where everyone wants to create God in their image or deny He exists at all, I think it’s a fair question. Once upon a time, there was a man named Job who suffered almost every loss and calamity imaginable.

discipleship,devotion,faith,fear,glory,honor,holiness,humility,priorities,reverence,surrender,who do you think you are

Being a God-fearing man, he couldn’t make sense of the logic of it all. He was confident if he could present his case to God, that the Lord would relent and exonerate him from all his sufferings (Job 13:3; Job 23:3-5). God’s response was to ask Job the question we are contemplating today: “Who do you think you are?”

A Royal Priesthood

September 12, 2024 by Tim Sherfy

In Peter’s first epistle, the apostle points out we are a chosen people, set apart to do the work of Christ (1 Peter 2:9). There’s something else tucked into that verse that doesn’t get a lot of attention. Peter states that believers in Christ become part of a royal priesthood. When was the last time you looked in the mirror and reminded yourself that you are a priest?

royal priesthood,discipleship,gifts,service,surrender

If you are like me, the word priest conjures up either a monk from the Middle Ages or a man wearing a black robe in a Catholic church. Neither image is compelling to me. When we look at the role of a Biblical priest, however, and realize we are to carry out similar duties, things get exciting.

[Read more…] about A Royal Priesthood

Great Is Thy Faithfulness

July 1, 2024 by Tim Sherfy

While rehearsing the classic hymn, “Great is Thy Faithfulness”, I found myself asking, “To what is God being faithful?” As I thought through all the ways God shows Himself faithful in my life, it occurred to me that above all, God is faithful to Himself. He is faithful to His character, which does not change (Numbers 23:19). The fact He never wavers to any degree is proof of His faithfulness.

great is thy faithfulness,faithful,love,mercy,grace,wrath

That He is faithful to Himself assures us He will always be faithful in kindness, goodness, mercy, grace, love, and even in His wrath (James 1:17). God’s faithfulness is great because it is reliable, trustworthy, righteous, and altogether holy. When we sing, “Great is thy faithfulness,” we are praising God for His unchanging character, unwavering love, and unstoppable power.

Secondary Issues?

June 10, 2024 by Tim Sherfy

If you hang around Christians long enough, you’ll no doubt eventually hear them talking about the difference between primary and secondary issues. Various denominations and individuals will agree on the “primary” issues like the Trinity, incarnation, resurrection, and the authority of Scripture. They may disagree on what are called “secondary” issues such as modes of baptism, eschatology, and the sign gifts (in case you are unfamiliar with any of those terms, I’ve linked to some more details on each).

secondary issues,integrity,commitment,discipleship,discipline,discipleship

More and more, we’re seeing modern “Christians” and pastors trying to place a lot of social topics into the category of secondary issues. Any time you try to justify sin by minimizing it, you are on dangerous ground. Not only will this lead many astray, but those perpetuating such nonsense are begging to have the wrath of God poured out on them.

[Read more…] about Secondary Issues?