Jesus' EvaluationJesus pointed out the validity of this charge against the disciples. Note Jesus' response in Matthew 17:21:"Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting."Take particular heed to the phrase, "...this kind goeth not out...[ abbreviated | read entire ]
False assumptions always cause false conclusions. False conclusions always create false solutions. False solutions ultimately produce failure. The healing of the demon possessed boy in Matthew 17.14-21 clearly illustrates these truths. This...[ abbreviated | read entire ]
Importance Of DiagnosisAs you can now see, the wrong diagnosis of the problem of the Church leads to disaster. This disaster reveals itself in at least four ways.First, it creates incorrect solutions. This failure causes reliance upon human...[ abbreviated | read entire ]
The miracle recorded in Matthew 17.14-21 pictures the condition of the Church of Jesus Christ in the world today. The demon possessed boy depicts the world; the disciples show the Church.In the passage, the disciples could not cure the sick boy....[ abbreviated | read entire ]
Jesus' AnswerJesus gave them a short answer to their question. They could not cast out the demon from the boy because of their unbelief. Before examining the real reason, I think it worth while to become aware of what Jesus did not say.For...[ abbreviated | read entire ]
Matthew 17 records the miraculous healing of a demon possessed boy. It occurred after the disciples had failed to cast out the demon. Upon His descent from the Mount of Transfiguration, Jesus healed the boy.This account gives a clear picture of...[ abbreviated | read entire ]
In addition, signs appear in the Church's denial of cardinal Biblical doctrines. Indeed, the Church loudly proclaims that it stands on the authority of the Bible in all matters of life and godliness. Yet at the same time it in practice rejects its...[ abbreviated | read entire ]
The Church of Jesus Christ faces a crisis. However, most Christians fail to recognize it. Outwardly, the Church looks grand. Many well-known churches number in the thousands of members. "Born again" has become a common phrase in society.But in the...[ abbreviated | read entire ]
Well, what does it mean to earnestly contend? Well, it includes overcoming these false notions. In addition, we must have a knowledge and understanding of the truth to identify error. Further, it calls for examination of those whom we follow,...[ abbreviated | read entire ]
"Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are certain...[ abbreviated | read entire ]
