Tag Archives: Christianity

The Final Word

In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.

Hebrews 1:1-3

Who is Jesus? The question has been asked many times by people. Even the Savior Himself asked the question “who do men say that I am”. (Matthew 16:13-18)

There are many possible responses to this question. However, the author of Hebrews addresses Jesus’ identity right from the start of the book. Let’s explore what God reveals about His Son and His work through His Holy Word.   

 **Jesus Reveals God’s True Nature

**Jesus Is the Creator

Christ Made the Universe

Christ Manages the Universe

Christ Maintains the Universe

**Jesus Represents God to Humanity

**Jesus Purifies His Own

Tony French

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Immutable

As Believers, the one constant in our life is our relationship with God. God never changes. God is constant in a world that changes rapidly from day to day.

The attribute that describes God’s unchanging nature is called “immutability.” The Scriptures teach this important principle about God’s character. Malachi 3:6 says For I, the Lord, do not change; therefore you, O sons of Jacob, are not consumed. Hebrews 13:8 tells us Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. This truth is taught consistently through the witness of the Bible.

Immutability does not mean that God does the same thing exactly the same way every time. No, God is creative in how He works and wills His sovereign plan for the universe. Immutability does mean that God always acts in ways that are consistent with His character. That is something fallible, sinful human beings cannot truthfully say about themselves.

Let us give thanks today for God’s unchanging nature. Let us give thanks that God is always consistent in this world that constantly changes.

Tony French

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Final Instructions

In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from every believer who is idle and disruptive and does not live according to the teachingyou received from us. For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate. 10 For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.” 11 We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. 12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat. 13 And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good. 14 Take special note of anyone who does not obey our instruction in this letter. Do not associate with them, in order that they may feel ashamed. 15 Yet do not regard them as an enemy, but warn them as you would a fellow believer.

2 Thessalonians 3:6-15

Today, let us peruse Paul’s final instructions to the church of Thessalonica. Though written centuries ago, these truths are still vital to Christians in the present. May God direct us as we apply these Scriptural lessons to our lives.

**Avoid idle and disruptive folks (6-8) (11-12)

**Work and allow the Lord to provide (9-10)

**Keep doing good (13)

**Warn fellow Believers (14-15)

Tony French

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Thoughts

3 Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified, just as it is with you, and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith. But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one. And we have confidence in the Lord concerning you, both that you do and will do the things we command you. Now may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the patience of Christ.

2 Thessalonians 3:1-5

Three thoughts from 2 Thessalonians 3……………….

**Pray for the proclamation of the Gospel

**Trust in the Lord’s Faithfulness

**Trust in the Lord’s direction


Pray for those who serve and minister in the gospel ministry. Trust in the faithfulness of God as He will never let you down. Trust the Lord to lead you in all things. These active steps of obedience will yield fruit in your life and in the lives of others.

God bless you,

Tony French

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Worldly Approval

The Hollow Ring of Worldly Approval

“Woe to you, when all people speak well of you, for so their fathers did to the false prophets.”

Luke 6:26

In our social media-driven age, the temptation to seek likes, follows, and constant affirmation is stronger than ever. But Jesus warns us about the danger of living for the applause of others. When we compromise our beliefs or water down the truth to gain approval, we risk becoming like the false prophets of old who told people what they wanted to hear rather than God’s truth.

This doesn’t mean we should intentionally be offensive or difficult. As Paul advises, “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all” (Romans 12:18). However, we must be willing to stand firm in our faith, even when it’s unpopular or challenges the status quo.

Tony French

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Fulfillment

“Woe to you who are full now, for you shall be hungry.”

Luke 6:25

The world offers many ways to fill our lives – career success, relationships, entertainment, and more. While these things aren’t inherently bad, they can never truly satisfy the deepest longings of our souls. Jesus, the Bread of Life and Living Water, is the only one who can fill the God-shaped void in our hearts.

We’re reminded of Solomon’s words in Ecclesiastes, where he pursued every worldly pleasure and achievement, only to find it all “meaningless, a chasing after the wind” (Ecclesiastes 1:14). True fulfillment comes from seeking first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33).

Seek to be filled with the righteousness of God. It will bring peace and comfort to your soul.

Tony French

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Comfort

13 But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters loved by the Lord, because God chose you as firstfruits to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth. 14 He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15 So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter. 16 May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, 17 encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.

2 Thessalonians 2:13-17

Let us consider three thoughts from 2 Thessalonians 2 as we seek the Lord. I pray these truths will comfort, encourage, and direct us as we follow Christ.

**Give thanks for your salvation

**Hold Fast to the Word of God

**Be Comforted in Christ

God bless you!

Tony French

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Love Of God

“We love Him, because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19) This verse is one of the most beautiful and striking verses in all of Scripture. The Bible instructs us that our love for God is a response to His love for us. He loved us before we ever loved Him.

How much does God love us? How can describe God’s love?

God’s love for us is undeterred. He loves us no matter where we born. He loves us no matter our station in life. Our financial status, our skin color, and our background do not deter the love of God. God does not love our sin and He does not love all of our choices. But, He loves us, oftentimes, in spite of ourselves.

God’s love for us is undeserved. In Romans 5:8, Paul says “But God commended His love toward us in that even while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Isn’t that amazing? God loved us not when we were good. He loved us at our absolute worst. He even loved us enough to die for us. The undeserved love of Christ is wonderful indeed.

Finally, God’s love for us is unmatched. Others may love and care for us. However, their love will never be able to match the love of God. He loves us more than anyone.

The Bible commands Believers to “walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us.” (Ephesians 5:2) We are to love Him and love others in response to His love expressed to us. If we have been given such a great gift of love, how can we withhold this gift from others?

Tony French

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New Year

The New Year always begins with much promise. It seems like a chance to start over and try to do better. At times, we are able to improve and strengthen our lives. At other times, it feels as if we waste our new beginnings and revert to old patterns.

While our improvement is hit and miss, God’s new beginnings are always perfect. We, as humans, sometimes fail to meet our goals and hit the marks we establish. God always accomplishes and completes what He starts.

Let us perceive a simple truth from God’s Word as we begin this New Year. As Believers, we have been made into new creations. 2nd Corinthians 5:17 reveals this truth when Paul says “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”  Through the power of forgiveness and the gift of salvation, we have been made into brand new persons in the sight of God.

We are now forgiven where once we were condemned. We are now found where once we were lost. We are now alive where once we were dead. We are now justified where once we were guilty. We have been made new through the blood of Jesus!

Certainly, we still struggle with sin. And this truth does not mean that we are perfect in this life. It means that we are being made perfect and that one day we will be complete when we are with Jesus forever.

Have you been made into a new creation through the forgiveness of your sins? Have you trusted Christ for your salvation? New Year’s resolutions are fine. But, having a relationship with God through Jesus Christ is infinitely better. Believe in Him and trust Him through faith today!

Tony French

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Holy

Holiness is a moral attribute of God. At its core, holiness means to be distinct, set apart. The biblical word “holy” (as it applies to God) carries with it the idea of God being separate and distinct from any other person or anything else in the entirety of the universe. Holiness also imparts the fact that God (being uncreated and eternal) “does not depend on anyone or anything to bring Him into existence or to sustain Him in being.” [1]

God’s holiness means He is majestic and powerful. The Scriptures declare “There is no one holy like the LORD, Indeed, there is no one besides You, nor is there any rock like our God.    (1 Samuel 2:2) God is above and beyond all His creation. He is sovereign over all creation.

Isaiah’s vision of God holiness was breathtaking and awesome. Around the throne of God, the angels cry out “Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord of hosts, the whole earth is full of His glory.”  (Isaiah 6:3). Nothing can compare to the God of Scripture.

In Revelation 4, John gives us a companion scene to Isaiah’s vision. The cries of “Holy, Holy, Holy” rise up continually amidst the throne of God. He is awesome, mighty, and powerful. No one can resist His plans.

Dear fellow Believer, the God of the Bible is holy. The God we serve and owe everything to, He is Holy, Holy, Holy. He calls us to be holy and separate as well. “Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 6:7) He is holy. Therefore, we should seek holiness every day.

Tony French


[1] John S. Feinberg, No One Like Him, pg. 340

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