Author: James Callen

Bible lessons, Faith, Spiritual encouragement

Trusting the word of the Lord: A Bible study of 1 Kings 17:7-16

Elijah told the widow to first prepare a small loaf of bread for him but not to fear because the Lord has promised the flour and oil would not run out. That means she was asked to first give of what she had to the Lord’s servant before the miracle would be seen. That required her to trust in the Lord, and be obedient to the Lord’s word.

Bible lessons, forgiveness, Ministry

Elijah’s prophecy of a coming drought: A lesson for America from 1 Kings 17

America seems to be increasing in wickedness against, and irreverence to, the Lord. Today, we tolerate or even accept things that God hates. Our culture seems as if it is becoming more-and-more like what the Bible describes, “because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold” (Matthew 24:12). But it’s not too late for America yet! We still have time to repent and return to God.

Bible lessons, Discipleship, Spiritual encouragement

What does baptism mean and when is it appropriate?

Properly, water baptism is the act of a new believer being briefly dipped (by a fellow follower of Christ) into water and then coming back out of the water. This symbolizes the new creation they have been made through Christ. It is a testament of that individual’s decision to give their life to Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. As such, it is to follow their profession of Jesus as Lord and Savior.

Bible lessons, Evangelism, Spiritual enlightenment

Is baptism necessary for salvation?

There are some who preach that salvation is by faith in Jesus—but must be predicated with water baptism. They embrace an interpretation that, unless one receives (water) baptism, one cannot be truly saved. Yet, the teaching that baptism is conditional to salvation, or necessary for the finalization of salvation, doesn’t align with Scripture! At its very least, it’s a dangerous teaching that diminishes the finished work of Jesus at Calvary. At its worst, it’s a doctrine that purposefully deceives people, and demeans the gospel message of salvation by grace through faith.