In this passage, we encounter Jesus performing a unique miracle. He heals a blind man, but not in the instant way we might expect. Instead, the healing occurs in two distinct stages. What Happened? People bring a blind man to Jesus in Bethsaida, begging him to touch the man. Jesus takes him outside the village, […]
Mark 8:14-21: Bread, Leaven, and Missing the Point
This passage in Mark is like a puzzle, a conversation where Jesus seems frustrated with his disciples’ lack of understanding. It can seem confusing, but it holds a vital lesson about truly seeing what God is doing. The Scene Jesus and his disciples are on a boat, and they’ve forgotten to bring bread. Only one […]
Galatians 6:11-18: A Message of Transformation and True Boasting
In this closing passage of Paul’s letter to the Galatians, we find a powerful message about what truly matters in the Christian life. It’s a message of transformation, new creation, and the importance of focusing on the cross of Christ. What’s Happening? Paul begins this section by emphasising the significance of the cross. He sees […]
Galatians 6:1-10: Walking the Walk of Faith
In this passage, Paul offers practical advice to the Galatians, and by extension, to us, on how to live out our faith in tangible ways. Verse 1-2: Restoring the Fallen “Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or […]
Galatians 5:13-26: A Guide to Freedom and Living by the Spirit
In this passage, the apostle Paul addresses a tension in the Christian life: How do we live in freedom without using that freedom as an excuse for self-indulgence? What’s the Big Idea? Paul emphasises that true freedom in Christ isn’t about doing whatever we want but about serving one another in love. This love is […]
Galatians 5:1-12: The True Freedom Found in Christ
In this passage, the apostle Paul passionately addresses the Galatians who were being tempted to turn away from the freedom they found in Jesus and return to following rules and regulations to earn their salvation. What’s the big deal? The Galatians were being influenced by people who insisted they needed to be circumcised, a Jewish […]
Open Eyes, Open Hearts: Seeing Beyond the Surface – Mark 8 v 14-21
14 Now they had forgotten to take bread, except for one loaf they had with them in the boat. 15 And Jesus ordered them, “Watch out! Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and the yeast of Herod!” 16 So they began to discuss with one another about having no bread. Jesus gives the disciples […]
Galatians 4:21-31: A Tale of Two Promises
Paul, the writer of Galatians, uses a powerful analogy in this passage to illustrate the difference between living under the law (Old Covenant) and living by faith (New Covenant). He does this by telling the story of Abraham’s two sons: Ishmael and Isaac. What Happened? Abraham had two sons. Ishmael was born to Hagar, Sarah’s […]
The Bridge between Judaism and Christianity – The Book of Romans
The book of Romans, written by the Apostle Paul, is a profound exploration of the relationship between Judaism and Christianity. It serves as a theological bridge, explaining how the new Christian faith is deeply rooted in and fulfils the promises of the old Jewish covenant. Key Connections Overall, the book of Romans paints a […]
Galatians 4:13-20: A Message of Love and Concern
In this passage, Paul gets personal with the Galatians. He reminds them of their previous close relationship and expresses his deep concern for their spiritual well-being. What Happened? Paul first visited the Galatians because of an illness (possibly a physical ailment or persecution). Despite this, the Galatians welcomed him warmly and treated him like an […]
Special Responsibility v Special Privilege – Romans 3 v 1-8
In Romans 3:1-8, the Apostle Paul addresses the question of what advantage the Jews have, given their special relationship with God. He acknowledges that they have been entrusted with the “oracles of God” (the Old Testament Scriptures), which is indeed a significant advantage. However, Paul emphasises that this advantage comes with a corresponding responsibility. The […]
Living a Life Pleasing to God
Romans 13:11-14 Commentary “And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.” (v. 11) This verse serves as a powerful wake-up call to believers. It emphasises the urgency of living a righteous life in […]