Paul’s consideration of the eventual cessation of spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 13 is a text of controversy for many, including the Eastern Orthodox Church. In particular, the meaning of “that which is perfect” is disputed. What does the text indicate?

Though God provided a way home for His captive people, many decided to remain in Babylon. Through Zechariah, God urged the people who remained in the land of captivity to return (cf. Zechariah 2:6-9). We must not grow comfortable in captivity!

The Bible shows us that our thoughts, decisions, and actions today tremendously affect our future. We cannot discount the importance of our thoughts and actions each day. They shape our tomorrow!

The Sabbath day was a common setting for controversy between Jesus and His enemies. What was the Sabbath day, and what is Jesus’ relation to it? What did Jesus mean by His responses to accusations raised against Him? Matthew 11-12 gives insight.

The church is a part of God’s eternal purpose in Christ (Ephesians 3:10-11). Paul’s description of the church in his letter to Timothy shows its importance, and work. It is “the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15).

Paul intended to send Timothy to Philippi to know of their state. As he wrote to the Philippians concerning these plans, he noted Timothy’s proven character (Philippians 2:19-24). Timothy is a character worthy of our imitation.

The sixth and final elementary principle of Christ listed by the Hebrew writer is “eternal judgment” (Hebrews 6:2). Throughout time, God has demonstrated judgments against sinful rebellion. These point to a final eternal judgment we must anticipate and prepare for.

The Holy Spirit shifts from the predicaments of Joseph to the case of Judah’s immorality with Tamar in Genesis 38. Though at first reading this seems out of place, one finds Judah is juxtaposed with Joseph in chapter 39. This contrast is beneficial to consider.

The fifth elementary principle of Christ listed by the Hebrew writer is “resurrection of the dead” (Hebrews 6:2). Resurrection is an indispensable part of the gospel. Without an understanding of and belief in resurrection we cannot progress the way God intends.

In life we make plans. How should we plan as Christians? How could worldliness affect our planning? James details a type of worldly planning which Christians should avoid (James 4:13-17).