“they made ready the passover” [Luke 22:13]

"they made ready the passover". Some preparation is needed if we are to glean the most from special occasions. (On some occasions, of course, the Lord does delight to bless by surprise.) Jesus told His disciples to make ready the passover, nominating the place where they were to meet, and they did so. If we ... Read more

“he was reckoned among the transgressors” [Luke 22:37]

"he was reckoned among the transgressors". What do we learn from this description of the Son of God? First, things are not always as they appear. A glance towards Golgotha on that fateful day may have given the impression of three criminals being crucified. Closer examination shows One to be the Son of God. Secondly, ... Read more

“he was buried” [I Corinthians 15:4]

"he was buried". The burial of Christ completes His death. It was not just an act of kindness; it was confirmation that the act of atonement had truly happened. The wages of sin had been paid. The wrath of God had been appeased. The work of Christ had been completed. The enemies of God had ... Read more

“full assurance” [Hebrews 10:22]

"full assurance". God wants everyone who trusts in the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus, to be assured of their salvation. It is finished and complete. If you are hoping that the good things you do will assure you of a place in heaven you will never have full assurance. No assurance means that ... Read more

“He has brought us to this place” [Deuteronomy 26:9(RAV)

""He has brought us to this place". After rehearsing God's dealing with His People, Moses is here showing them the manner in which they should come before the Lord with the offering of their firstfruits. It was important that they should recognise that the Lord had brought them to the place where they now were. ... Read more

“Search me, O God, and know my heart” [Psalm 139:23]

"Search me, O God, and know my heart". We are encouraged to submit ourselves to health checks of one form or another. When something irregular is found, specialist advice is sought to correct what is wrong. Yet how many, even among those who acknowledge the Person of God, pray the Psalmist's prayer in earnest? Instead, ... Read more