What Are You Chasing?

“The proverbs,” those wise, clever, pithy (and often unrelated) sayings actually begin in chapter ten with an announcement:

The proverbs of Solomon.

A wise son makes a father glad,

But a foolish son is a grief to his mother.

--Proverbs 10:1

I would not press the matter, but the first nine chapters of Proverbs may simply be a lengthy introduction. It is as if Solomon was careful to prepare the mind of his son so that he could listen to wisdom. And how does he prepare him?

If I had to summarize the first nine chapters of Proverbs into one statement…

Chase after the knowledge and discernment of the Lord;

do not chase after women.

Just prior to chapter ten, wisdom is personified as a desirable woman offering wisdom, discretion, and life. In stark contrast is the ‘strange’ woman (adulteress) who is ultimately portrayed as naïve. She doesn’t even realize that she seduces men to their deaths.

How many young men have set their eyes on a good and lofty goal in life; high thoughts of service, generosity, and devotion to God, perhaps even entering into the ministry? But things changed. It was not shifting interests or the demands of career; rather it was the momentary distraction of the sexual lure of a woman. 

Foolish!

Even if he is careful/clever enough to escape public notice, the guilt changes him. Lofty goals are smashed.
Changed forever!

It is not that God’s forgiveness cannot heal. But the power of sin and the psychological entanglement are great and all too often defeating.
There is no ‘undo.’

Watch his parents...
Filled with high hopes, his father’s heart is deeply saddened; his mother weeps. There are many ways to act foolishly, but sexual sin is among the most devastating.

Young men! Sexual purity is of greatest importance. Purity of the spirit is the pursuit of wisdom and knowledge and discernment. You will NEVER regret the sin you did not commit!

How many young men have fallen prey to the lure of a girlfriend, the power of pornography, the seduction of another man’s wife? For a moment of sexual pleasure, a life is changed!
Changed forever!!!

The ‘first’ proverb...

A wise son makes a father glad,

But a foolish son is a grief to his mother.

Chase wisely!

Mark Stinnett

(Edited and reposted from 4/24/2016)

Who Would Hate Christianity?

Some people hate Christianity, and justifiably so. It might be violence masquerading as the Lord’s cause (i.e., the Crusades). It might be criminal activity among church leaders. It might be immoral behavior that is tolerated or ‘swept under the rug’ to keep a church scandal hidden from the public. Where high ideals and moral behavior are preached but hypocrisy is seen, it is found to be highly distasteful. For that reason, some do not hate Christianity without cause. (See last week’s article.) And yet, those displays of ungodly behavior are not real Christianity.

More confounding are those who hate Christianity when God’s people are following God’s word. Those who are saints live by the Golden Rule, live the Sermon on the Mount, strive to love God and love their neighbor. They may not lead perfect lives, but they are not hypocrites. Nor do they wear their holiness like a badge of honor. Rather, in humble sincerity, they stive to live like Christ. And yet, some people still hate Christianity and those who are Christians, and there is nothing we can do about it.

The reason is rather simple. It is rooted in the character of God and the human conscience.

We understand that fellowship with God is based on living according to the divine character of God (compassion, grace, forgiveness, faithfulness, kindness, love, justice). Anyone who goes against the character of God naturally breaks fellowship with God. Said another way, God cannot embrace anyone who is foreign to His divine character of purity, holiness, love, and justice. So, those who oppose God are rejected by God. However, it is not because God rejects them. Rather, by their values and decisions, they choose to reject God.

The sad truth is that many people do not wish to live in harmony and fellowship with God. They wish to be independent of God and live according to their own standard. They oppose the very character of God and His holiness.

However, when they oppose God’s character by sinning, they feel guilt in their conscience. That is because God placed within every human being a moral code that does not require oral or written law. Paul refers to it in Romans 1 as the ‘ordinance of God’ (v. 32). This unwritten moral standard forbids murder, disobedience to parents and immorality, among other sins. So, even those who reject God know that some things are wrong, and their conscience informs them of their guilt.

Since they do not wish to live by God’s standard, they attempt to justify their sin or rationalize it. Yet, Christianity (and Christians) are a stark reminder of God and His standard of holiness. So, they despise Christianity.

The following Scriptures inform us of our responsibility toward those haters:

If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.

--Romans 12:18

He who corrects a scoffer gets dishonor for himself,

And he who reproves a wicked man gets insults for himself.

Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you,

Reprove a wise man and he will love you.

--Proverbs 9:7-8

Do not give what is holy to dogs, and do not throw your pearls before swine,

or they will trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.

--Matthew 7:6

If you discover that a person is a scoffer, one who mocks God, mocks the teachings of Jesus, and mocks the people of God, your best response is generally silence. By engaging in debate, especially publicly (including social media), you may be the one providing them a platform for openly mocking God. The exception may be if naïve listeners would benefit from your correction.

Be wise and do not provide haters an opportunity to further mock God.

Mark Stinnett

September 20, 2026

Do They Hate Christianity without Cause?

Christians are followers of Christ, right? Jesus stood for goodness, kindness, service, forgiveness and love. Jesus promoted godliness and holiness among His followers. The life of the Christian is on a trajectory to be more like Christ each day.

Yet, for some, the mere mention of Christianity causes a strong negative reaction. Depending on the circumstances, they might offer their opinion about the evils of Christianity. Yes, it is true. Some people think that Christianity has done far more harm than good. Some people hate Christianity and despise Christians.

Why would anyone hate Christianity and what can we do about it?

Some people hate Christianity because of the evils done in the name of Christ in the past and in the present. While you and I cannot be held accountable for the Crusades, those wars were initiated and fought in the name of Christ. For many unbelievers, that intuitively goes against what they believe Christianity should be. They are correct. Jesus said that His kingdom was not of this world. On the day He was crucified He told Pilate that if His kingdom were of this world, His disciples would be fighting for Him. So, even Jesus would say that the Crusades were bad.

In our day, some professed Christians attach to Christianity their political views or their love of country. However, the teachings and values of Jesus transcend political ideologies and national boundaries. So, it is understandable when unbelievers are critical for such associations.

Some people look down on or even hate Christianity because of the internal problems witnessed within groups claiming affiliation with Christianity. They see sin tolerated, strife over petty issues, and division. The problem is not new, but it is damaging. Most of the content of the letter of 1 Corinthians focuses on division within the church in Corinth in the first century. One of the problems the Apostle Paul addressed was how the Christians were taking fellow Christians to the secular courts over their disagreements. He said it would be better to be wronged than to act in such a way. Another problem in the church in Corinth was the tolerance of a particular sin that Paul said would not even be tolerated by godless people.

We might sum up these reasons for hating Christianity under the header of hypocrisy. Even without being taught the Bible, most people have an idea of the kind of people Christians are supposed to be. So, when outsiders see the lives of Christians who are not living up to the standards of Christ, they justify their distaste for Christianity.

Undoubtedly, this kind of thing must make God very sad. After all, it has been His plan for Christians to showcase to the world the benefits of being in the family of God. So, what can we do? In the Scriptures we (Christians) are taught:

Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”

--Matthew 5:44

Let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith. 

--Galatians 6:10

In everything, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets.

--Matthew 7:12

Love your neighbor as yourself.

--Matthew 22:39

Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor.

--Romans 12:10

Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ has forgiven you. 

--Ephesians 4:32

By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another. 

--John 13:35

If all Christians were truly devoted to these teachings, those outside of Christ would have a very different view of Christianity. 

But what about you? 

What is your part in all this? 

The answer: Self-denial. 

Read the verses again because it is not about YOU.

Mark Stinnett

September 13, 2026

Life in the Body

Civic organizations, political organizations, businesses, and even non-profits are careful with their employees and those who make up their organization. They desire highly qualified individuals to be a part of their organization. Unqualified individuals or those who hamper the goals or effectiveness of the organization and its mission are generally dismissed.

That is how man thinks and how man organizes. God is different.

God keeps the weak. In the body of Christ (the church), the weak members are given prominence. The Apostle Paul wrote to the church in Corinth that those who “seem to be weaker are necessary.” He said that the members “without honor” were given “abundant honor.” (See 1 Corinthians 12:18-27.) So, a member of the body of Christ should never have the attitude that another member is unimportant or unnecessary.

This principle is easily illustrated with the human body. If I smack my thumb with a hammer, I don’t cut off my thumb. Instead, my other hand holds it, and my tear ducts might even activate. Other body members work harder to do the work that the injured thumb would ordinarily do. They also provide protection for the injured thumb. The same thing could be said for a weakness in the body. Where there is injury or weakness, the other members of my body respond.

The Christian widows in Jerusalem who were overlooked are an example this principle at work in the early church. When their situation was brought to light, they were given “abundant honor.” How? Others humbled themselves to provide for them and serve them. They were not forgotten or cast aside or forced out because of their needs; they were considered important. (See Acts 6.)

In God’s church the strong rally around those who are weak and those who have needs. The weak and needy are given abundant honor as they are shown that they are important. Those who are able to provide assistance give the needed support or attention. They treat those who are weak or in need as equals. In that, the weak and needy are shown abundant honor.

It is necessary for the members of Christ to respond to many kinds of needs: financial, employment, parental, assistance in and around the home, or simple conversation. Some may need spiritual help: teaching or help dealing with sin. Not everyone in the body responds to every need, but those who are healthy and strong and who have opportunity respond.

We do not cast off members of Christ’s body just because there are needs or because of weakness. We give. We console. We assist. We serve. We teach. We appeal. We rebuke. We pray. But most of all we keep. We keep those who are weak and needy because God does.

In the body of Christ, we consider others as more important than ourselves. We are the body of Christ...and we give attention to those who are weak and in need.



Mark Stinnett

September 6, 2026

How to Self-Destruct

Have you ever told a lie and gotten away with it?

In other words, you lied and no one noticed, no one figured it out.

Whatever you might call it—white lie, fib, fabrication, farce, fairy tale, faulty fact, stretching the truth, half-truth, deception, loop-hole—it is a lie.

When caught in a lie, some people admit that the lie was a lie but try to justify the lie, that is, they try to explain how the lie was a good thing; they make lying out to be the correct behavior. Other people admit their lie but try to rationalize it by explaining how it was necessary; it was wrong, but there was no other way. (Still others simply refuse to admit their lie.)

Why do we (humans) attempt to justify and rationalize lying?

The reason is twofold but simple: We intuitively understanding that lying is wrong and we wish to avoid guilt. At the same time, we do not want to be branded as a liar and lose respect and trust. So, when we lie and begin to sense guilt, the mind then attempts to protect itself with justifications and rationalizations. Both soothe the conscience in to thinking that ‘I’ should not be held responsible for the lie.

You might have seen the conscience illustrated as a person with an angel figure on one shoulder and a devil figure on the opposite shoulder. Each whispers into the closest ear trying to influence a choice, good vs evil. There might be some truth to that illustration, and yet, often the battle is within. The evil desires of the body wish to take control. The human spirit (emotion, intellect, human will) desires control. Worldly desires within try to influence the soul when the soul has placed a value on truth. The conscience stands as judge to make a moral evaluation and render a verdict.

Whether the lie was motivated because of making an embarrassing mistake, failure in accomplishing a task, fear of consequences, or something else, the lie is destructive. That is because there is no such thing as ‘my truth’ and ‘your truth.’ Truth is absolute. Truth is that which exists. Truth is reality. Truth is not dependent on ‘me’ discovering it or learning it. Truth exists with or without ‘you’ and with or without ‘me.’ So, a lie does not change the truth but masks over truth so that reality is hidden.

A lie is meant to present falsehood as reality. When that is done it changes the perception of those around us. Because of the lie that is presented, they believe something that is not true. We all make choices and take action based on our perceptions of truth. So, a lie told may change the perceptions of people so that their actions are based on a deception. And remember, although Eve was deceived by the serpent, she was still held accountable for her actions. Reality DID NOT change.

So, whenever you tell a lie, you should not think that your lie affects only you. Your are selfishly influencing those around you to accept your deception as truth. And the way you influence them may be detrimental to them.

Perhaps even more devastating than the harm a lie does to others is the lie that you tell yourself...that it really does not matter. That’s how you destroy yourself. Through the writing of the wise King Solomon God revealed...

A false witness will not go unpunished,

And he who tells lies will not escape.

—Proverbs 19:5

God is very serious about lying. God is very serious about truth. For the sake of your soul and for the sake of others...always tell the truth.

Mark Stinnett

August 30, 2026

Worship and Others

Did you read last week’s blog posting entitled “Worship and YOU”? It emphasized that worship is not a consumer activity. It is not about making us happy and fulfilling our expectations as consumers. It is about giving honor and praise to God. That is true whether one’s worship is offered in a weekly assembly with other Christians or as an expression of worship when alone.

And yet, when we intentionally come together to worship God, our worship also fills another expectation: encouragement of fellow believers.

Listen to the words of the Apostle Paul as he gives instruction regarding the assembly of Christians. Although he was specifically addressing issues regarding spiritual gifts, the application is broad.

I thank God, I speak in tongues more than you all; however, in the church [assembly] I desire to speak five words with my mind so that I may instruct others also, rather than ten thousand words in a tongue. 

-- 1 Corinthians 14:19

Based on Paul’s instruction it seems that the Christians in Corinth were so excited about speaking in tongues (foreign languages) that they had placed too great an emphasis on that spiritual gift. After all, if there was no interpreter (translator), then the foreign language meant nothing to anyone. The simple point is that our worship gathering ought to be understandable and encouraging to everyone attending.

Eight times in 1 Corinthians 14 Paul makes an argument for understanding. Six times he specifically emphasizes the need for edification in the assembly. He was so adamant about understanding and edification that he instructed those who spoke in tongues to be silent if there was no one to interpret (translate). He instructed those who prophesied (delivering a message from God) to take turns to avoid confusion.

So, while worship consists of praise and honor TO God, all that is done as worship should be understandable and edifying to those participating.

Earlier in 1 Corinthians, Paul gave instruction concerning the Lord’s Supper, another problem area for the Corinthian Christians. He said…

As often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes. 

-- 1 Corinthians 11:26

Even though the Lord’s Supper is focused on the life and sacrifice of Jesus, we should be aware that we are each making an open proclamation when we participate. We are announcing the Lord’s death to our fellow saints. It is not because they are unaware. Rather, it is a declaration of unity in our shared conviction regarding Jesus. But not only that, we do so “until He comes.” It is a simple celebratory memorial that announces the death of Jesus while each participant is convinced of His return. So to share in the Lord’s Supper is to collectively celebrate our salvation AND our hope.

This blog posting is for EVERY Christian who assembles to worship, but it is especially for those who lead. The prayers led ought to encourage. The songs chosen should encourage, and the way they are led ought to encourage. The comments at the Lord’s table ought to encourage us as they remind us of Jesus. The preaching and teaching ought to encourage. All glory and honor goes to God and to Jesus. And yet, in His divine wisdom, God desires for His worshippers to be encouraged when they assemble to worship.

Each of us has a part in our worship assemblies. Each week ought to be a kind of homecoming, until we go to our heavenly home.

Mark Stinnett

August 23, 2026

Worship and YOU

Is worship about YOU??

“Of course not!” (our obvious and correct answer)

The answer given above would end this writing if it were not for the fact that many churches have made ‘worship’ a consumer activity. 

Do you?

We know how to answer the question. And yet, when we come together to worship, we want things to be a certain way, right?

Let’s think about that.

People who ride roller coasters will tell you that their first time riding a particular ride is the most thrilling, perhaps even, the first few rides. And yet, the way amusement parks are run suggests that after a while, even the most thrilling ride loses its thrill and a new ride must be built to bring in thrill seekers. The reason is simple: People do not show up to honor the ride or the creator of the ride or the park. They are not there to give but to take. They ride to be thrilled and entertained.

When worship becomes something that, in your mind, you consume, you cease to be a worshipper. When a period of worship must meet your standard of what is satisfying, you are a consumer, not a worshipper.

Do you remember King David dancing before the Lord when the ark of the covenant was brought into Jerusalem? Some people today like to point to that occasion to justify the inclusion of exciting elements in a worship assembly.

Do you remember how the journey began when David brought the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem? After those carrying the ark had gone six paces, David stopped them and he sacrificed two animals to God. That took time. It does not carry a sense of excitement like the dancing but somber reflection and intentional worship. (2 Samuel 6:13 comes before verse 14.)

We should not give more focus to one occasion or the other. Both were expressions of worship on David’s part. Neither, by itself, ‘defines’ worship.

“I think worship would be more meaningful…

• “...If we sang fewer ‘old’ songs and more ‘new’ songs.”
• “...If the preacher made us laugh more.”
• “...If the communion service had more variety.”
• “...If people would ‘raise holy hands’ like the Bible says.”
• “...If people would ‘humbly bow’ like they did in the Bible.”

"I think worship would be more meaningful...if it was...what I like." And yet, if worship was focused on what YOU like, it would more accurately be worship “to you” or, at least, “for you”!! But it is not!

When Jesus said that a true worshipper must worship God in spirit and truth, he was not referring to external actions. Jesus warned his listeners about doing things to be seen by others. So, be careful about the way you evaluate the worship assembly; it is not about you and what you like.

The Bible is very clear that worship is a heart response to God that presents praise, honor, and gratitude. For the heart to truly worship, there must be understanding and intent. The mind and heart must be engaged. After all, how can a song or prayer be worship if we cannot understand? What is the ’communion service’ when one’s mind drifts elsewhere? What is ‘bowing’ or ‘raising holy hands,’ if one’s motive is merely to copy others?

Worship is not about consuming. It is not intended to give you an emotional high or intellectual buzz. Worship is not about taking, but giving.

When we assemble, don’t come to consume; rather, offer worship to God.

Mark Stinnett

August 16, 2026

How Important Are Your Intentions?

Whenever a person speaks, there is meaning in what is spoken. The speaker has an intended message he is trying to convey. It is frustrating when the listener misunderstands, misinterprets, ignores, or intentionally twists your intended meaning. Your frustration answers the title question: How important are intentions?

In the Bible there are several instances in which intentions are of great significance.

God’s word: 

God’s message to mankind has meaning that originated in His mind. He expects mankind to understand and respond based on the meaning He intended, not ‘what it means to me.’ 

Consider 2 Peter 1:20-21…

But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation, for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.

Sacrifice: 

In the Old Testament people would bring an animal to a priest to slay it and offered it as a sacrifice. However, there were different purposes of the sacrifices. A sin offering was for the forgiveness of one’s sin. A peace offering was for maintaining fellowship with God. An offering of thanks was a sacrifice of simple gratitude. The person’s intent in offering the sacrifice was the first element in determining its purpose and benefit.

Carried a step further, consider the hunter who kills an animal for food or the person who takes from his livestock to host a feast for friends. Would the slaying of either of those animals forgive sins, secure fellowship with God, or be considered thanksgiving to God. Intent determines the purpose of the death of the animal and the expected benefit.

Baptism: 

As kids we loved to go to the creek near my grandmother’s house. While playing, someone would always be dunked. Technically speaking, that was a baptism. (The literal meaning of baptism is immersion, presumably in water). However, because the creek dunking was done with only playful intent, it had no religious significance. However, when a person is baptized into Christ according to Scripture intending to receive the promises that God has declared, then baptism is full of meaning. It has a spiritual effect because of what God has declared and promised.

Furthermore, what if your intent at your baptism was not the same as God’s intent? What if you were baptized so you could have your name placed on the membership role at a local church group or to show your parents that you were a responsible kid? Those are not God’s intent in baptism. Baptism has value only if your intent matches God’s intent!

Worship: 

When you sing a hymn do you intend to worship? Or is it merely words dribbling off your lips like dog slobbers? The Apostle Paul, in stressing the importance of accurate communication in our assembly, wrote, “I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” (1 Corinthians 14:15) His simple point was that if there was no understanding of the mind, then the singing was of no value. (That’s why it is of no value to sing songs in a foreign language unless the meaning is understood.)

When the bread and cup are taken during the Lord’s Supper, how can it be worship if your mind is wandering aimlessly or thinking about lunch or distracted by the toddler sitting in front of you? What is your intent?

Intent is not important; it is critical! 

If you lack intent when you are following God’s instruction in Scripture, or if your intent is different from God’s intent, then you will cheat yourself out of God’s intended blessings.

Mark Stinnett

August 9, 2026

Bond-Servant: Jesus

We like to talk about all that God has done for us. We like to talk about our salvation and all that Christ has done for us. We love to explore the parables of Jesus. (For many, the parables are like mini-mysteries where the different characters and events provide clues to a hidden message.) Many of the parables feature characters with a master-slave relationship.

We are happy to discuss all the way that Jesus served. We love the verse that tells us that “the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:28)

We are happy to see the humble lives of the apostles after the death of Jesus, men who gave their lives to the cause of Christ, men who referred to themselves as bond-servants of Christ.

In fact, most of us who wear the name of Christ are quite happy to serve. We are mostly happy to be a servant, but we are hesitant to go to the extent of service to be a bond-servant.

In a sense, you are a servant to your boss. We might be uncomfortable with that terminology, but it is accurate. There is a fair exchange of work for pay (presumably), but you follow the orders of your boss. He is your master at work and you are the servant. However, you stop at the end of your shift or work day. You have your private life...YOUR life.

The bond-servant gave up his will and made the master’s will his own. It is more than, “Your wish is my command.” It is, “Your desire is my own desire.” If someone were to ask the bond-servant, “What do you want in life?” or “What are your personal goals?” The answer would come without hesitation, “My desire is to do my master’s will. My life is completely devoted to my master.”

Do you understand that the issues of our day are related to the human will? All the identity confusion is people asserting their will on others to the point that they wish to govern the language and how you use it by forcing their perception of reality on others. Feminism is about the human will. The fighting among our political parties is a struggle of the human will. Crime is most often the assertion of the human will to obtain something, whether justice or possessions. Anger is the human will boldly expressing its dissatisfaction with the current circumstances. And the list goes on….

The human will is a part of the human spirit. When the soul allows the human will to assert itself and control the person, then that person becomes the center of their universe: “MY will be done!” The only possible result is conflict with others who also live by the same, “MY will be done!”

Jesus felt the struggle of the human will the night before He was crucified. He asked God to “remove this cup from Me.” In other words, His human will wished to avoid the crucifixion. Yet, He immediately followed, “yet not My will, but Yours be done.” He walked the path to the cross: Bond-servant.

“MY will be done” embraces...

     Eve, 

          Cain, 

               Sodom & Gomorrah, 

                    Korah, Dathan & Abiram, 

                         Nadab & Abihu, 

                              Deliliah, 

                                   Goliath, 

                                        Jezebel, 

                                             Judas, and so on.

Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although he existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, he humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on the cross. 

--Philippians 2:5-8

You say you want to be like Jesus. 

It’s all about the will….

Mark Stinnett

August 2, 2026

Servanthood: What about Me?

Someone humorously noted that once man had rocketed to the moon and discovered that is was not made of cheese, he did not go back!

It seems that some people think about heaven in a similar way. They are interested in heaven only if it has things they like. They cannot imagine enjoying heaven without their spouse, or extended family, or a favorite pet, leisure activity, entertainment option, or...bacon. (Silly, right?)

Someone recently suggested that heaven might be boring if there is no sin. Someone else wondered if heaven would have the variety of life that so many are accustomed to experiencing on earth. Some people find is discouraging, or, at least, uninteresting, to read in Revelation about angels continually singing praises to God. And why? Singing is not their interest.

The ‘servant’ passages of Scripture also bother some people. Do you find it difficult to embrace the idea of being God’s slave and adopting His will?

In the last two blogs servanthood was considered. In the blog entitled “No Thanks” (7/12), a parable was considered in which Jesus noted that a servant has but one task, to serve his master. He does not expect thanks for his service. In the blog entitled “Accepted for What?” (7/19), the Parable of the Talents was considered. The two servants who carried out their master’s will received no thanks or payment. In fact, one received greater responsibility. And yet the master invited both, “Enter into the joy of your master.”

I think we sometimes wish God would hold an ‘open house’ so we could take a peek into heaven to see if it is all that we expect. (At least post pics!) Our limited human mind wants to know, “What’s in it for me?”

On one occasion Jesus used the servant-master relationship to illustrate readiness. He encouraged His followers to be like servants who were eagerly waiting for their master to return from a wedding feast so they could open the house to him. However, the picture described by Jesus was different than other servant-master illustrations/parables:

Blessed are those slaves whom the master will find on the alert when he comes; truly I say to you, that he will gird himself to serve, and have them recline at the table, and will come up and wait on them.

--Luke 12:37

That was quite surprising. The master served the servants!

Parables and illustrations like this typically represent God or Jesus as the Master and the disciples of Jesus as the servants. The return of the Master most often represents a time of judgment and sometimes the end of time and final judgment with the afterlife to follow. The servant-master relationship is used to teach us something about the eternal kingdom of God.

Jesus revealed more about the faithful slave as He continued with the illustration. The faithful slave is the one who is watchful, prepared and ready. In other words, he is faithfully carrying out his master’s will. Jesus said of him, “Truly I say to you that he [master] will put him [slave] in charge of all his possessions.” (v. 44) I am not sure what the master’s possessions represent in this illustration. Yet, verse 44 is the second half of a beatitude that began in verse 43: So...blissful is that slave who is prepared.

Have we become so engorged on our wealthy lifestyle that we have lost our taste for heaven? Are we so spoiled that we think, “What’s in it for me?” Have we become accustomed to being our own master!? 

Have you ever wondered if Satan might be using ‘life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness’ to distract you from more important things?

It is blissful to be a faithful slave to Jesus because of our future hope.

Can your mind embrace that truth?

Mark Stinnett

July 26, 2026

Accepted for What?

When the gospel was first preached Peter concluded that Jesus of Nazareth was both “Lord and Christ.” The Greek word for Lord could just as easily be translated master. How often do you think of Jesus as your Master?

When the New Testament was written, the word ‘lord’ was often used as a sign of respect, similar to the way we use the word ‘sir.’ Yet, the followers of Jesus undoubtedly intended more than ‘sir’ when they called Him, “Lord.” They considered Jesus to be their Master.

The Apostle Paul referred to himself and his missionary companions as bond-servants of Jesus. Paul called Timothy a bond-servant of Christ and applied it forward to all who teach and preach. In their letters, James, Peter, and Jude all introduced themselves as bond-servants of Jesus. In the book of Revelation not only does John regard himself a bond-servant of Jesus, but also Moses and God’s angels. In fact, all saints are considered bond-servants of Christ. The bond-servant exchanges his will for the will of the Master. The servant’s single aim is to glorify his Master by doing His will.

The unglorified position of the slave was the focus of last week’s article. Jesus described a slave that served his Master without thanks, without an expected reward. He received only the acceptance of his Master.

In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) slaves are shown in a different light. A master puts three of his servants in charge of a large sum of money, each given an amount appropriate to their ability. As is true of all slaves, they were expected to carry out their master’s will. In the parable, the will of the master is not stated explicitly. Yet, it is clear that they were each expected to put the money to use to make more money for the master.

In the parable, Jesus revealed how the slaves handled their assignments. Two of the slaves did according to the master’s will. They put the money to use and gained more money for their master. And what did they receive?

The master returned to settle accounts with the slaves. The first slave was entrusted with five talents (a very large sum of money), and he gained five more for the master. (Notice that it was for the master, not himself. He did not receive a percentage of the profits, a commission, or even a bonus. He did not even receive thanks.) The master then said, “Well done, good and faithful slave.” Though not a word of gratitude, it was genuine acceptance.

The slave who was entrusted with one talent was afraid and hid the money so that he could return it to his master upon his return. It is true that nothing was lost, but nothing was gained. The master expected gain. So, his words to this slave were strong: “You wicked, lazy slave!”

Three things then happened:

• The man with one talent had his talent taken away. (It was not his money to begin with.)
• The man with one talent was rejected and cast away from the master.
• The man with ten talents was given the talent from the unfaithful slave. (None of the money was his; not the original five, not the profit of five, and not the one from the unfaithful slave.)

The master approved of the man with ten talents and gave him one more talent, that is, more responsibility. (What were you expecting?!)

The master did say something more to the two faithful slaves. He invited them: “Enter into the joy of your master.”

When we learn that the only thing that matters is to glorify and please our Master, we will understand the treasure of entering the joy of our Master.

Mark Stinnett

July 19, 2026

No Thanks

We love stories that revolve around someone who is underappreciated and then makes a comeback. A charming and generous but underappreciated man falls on hard times and is on the brink of suicide. Just in the nick of time his family and friends come to support him. Happy ending; all is well. An underappreciated lawman or doctor or coach or civic leader comes to a point of exhaustion, ready to give in, ready to give up. Then they dig deep within and try a little harder, just one more day. Circumstances change and they are rewarded for their inner strength and tenacity.

Not all stories of the underappreciated turn out so well. The underappreciated butler endures the ungrateful family he serves and in retaliation carefully launches a plan to steal the family’s wealth. The underappreciated policeman or government worker devotes a lifetime of service, but in the end lashes out violently against the system that has undervalued him.

There is within all of us a sense of justice or fairness. It comes from a belief that there should be balance in life. If a crime is committed, the criminal should be punished in a way that balances with (fits) the crime. (The Old Testament law of “an eye for an eye and tooth for a tooth” follows that kind of reasoning.)

When a person goes to work, he ought to be paid a fair wage. When a product is sold, it ought to be for a fair price. When you do a favor for a friend, he promises, “I owe you one,” a verbal gesture for a future equitable favor.

Of course, there are occasions in which we do not expect the favor to be returned. When a parent does something for his/her child fair payment is not expected. And yet, a parent can feel underappreciated when there is no thanks. Most of us expect appreciation, if in no other way, then by simple, heartfelt gratitude. And yet, Jesus told of a time when a person would not be shown gratitude?

“Which of you, having a slave plowing or tending sheep, will say to him when he has come in from the field, ‘Come immediately and sit down to eat’? But will he not say to him, ‘Prepare something for me to eat, and properly clothe yourself and serve me while I eat and drink; and afterward you may eat and drink’? He does not thank the slave because he did the things which were commanded, does he? So you too, when you do all the things which are commanded you, say, ‘We are unworthy slaves; we have done only that which we ought to have done.’ ” 

—Luke 17:7-10

Does this teaching seem odd to you?

Are you disappointed with its ending?

The master was not expected to give thanks to the servant because the slave was there to serve the master. When the slave did as the slave was expected he was accepted because all expectations were met. Yet, the slave receive no thanks, no bonus, no reward. Still yet, there were no inequities. Neither owed the other.

Jesus did not leave this teaching open to interpretation. He revealed the application to all who listened/read: We who are servants of Jesus ought to see ourselves as unworthy slaves. Our task is to fulfill our Master’s will. We may find satisfaction in knowing that we have done our Master’s will and received His acceptance.

We might not know what motivated this teaching. But it is especially applicable to those who whine and complain when they don’t receive attention for the service they offer in the Lord.

As a humble servant, give all glory to the Master.

Mark Stinnett

July 12, 2026

Man's Plans and Casting Lots

For many Bible readers, the Old Testament practice of ‘casting lots’ seems like the use of chance in making decisions. Bible dictionaries suggest that ’lots’ might have been sticks of various lengths, flat stones, or even some kind of ancient dice. Such descriptions resemble today’s ’drawing straws,’ ‘flipping coins’ and ‘rolling dice,’ all ways of deciding by chance. And yet...

The lot is cast into the lap,

But its every decision is from the Lord.

--Proverbs 16:33

What are we supposed to do with this proverb?

Here are a few Bible examples of casting lots to make decisions:

• Lots were cast to select one of two goats for sacrifice. (Leviticus 16:8)
• Lots were cast for the land inheritance of Israel’s tribes. (Joshua 18)
• The apostles cast lots for the man to replace Judas. (Acts 1:16-26)
• Sailors cast lots to discover who was responsible for a storm that endangered their lives. The lot fell to Jonah. (Jonah 1)

In the first three examples it is unclear whether God influenced the outcomes or left each outcome to chance. However, in the case of Jonah, God’s involvement is clear.

It could be argued that when no moral issues are involved and a choice is unclear, a flip of a coin might be wiser than voting or leaving a decision to a committee or other group within a congregation.

King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon was eager for wisdom in making decisions. He consulted His advisors but over time realized that these wise men were either using personal wisdom, relating speculation, or applying chance in their use of astrology, charms, divination, etc. They might as well have been casting lots.

We might be just as eager for wisdom in making decisions, but how can we be sure that God has given us His answer or influenced the outcome? How can we be sure that our eventual course is approved by God? Consider Proverbs 18:18...

The cast lot puts an end to strife

And decides between the mighty ones.

In the numerous passages about casting lots, it appears that God used this as a means of taking the decision out of the hands of men. Whether He caused a certain outcome or allowed chance is not always clear. And yet, it ended strife between people and ended potential anxiety in individuals.

In our day people often look for signs when making decisions. And yet, God does not promise angelic messages, signs in the sky or in dreams. Nor has He instructed us to cast lots. So, when making decisions, first consult God’s written wisdom, the Bible...and follow what you discover. Second, seek wise counsel from someone older and with more experience...and listen! When indecision lingers, you can be sure of two paths that are unwise:

• Praying but doing what you secretly know you want to do. (Read Jeremiah 42 as an example.)
• Praying for guidance and doing nothing when you can do something, and at the same time expecting the Lord to make something happen. (Remember the Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25:14-30.)

Finally, if ever a choice must be made and the options are equivalent, perhaps wisdom reaches for the ‘lots’ simply to remove human strife.

Mark Stinnett

July 5, 2026

Work Out Your Salvation??

So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling. 

--Philippians 2:12

What was the Apostle Paul trying to communicate about salvation?

• Was he telling Christians that everyone’s salvation is different, that each person has to figure it out on his own?
• Was he making a point about individual responsibility?
• What does fear and trembling have to do with salvation? Fear of what?

Salvation: 

Paul was writing to Christians, those who were in a state of having been saved. Sometimes we are so accustomed to the word salvation that it becomes cliché. It is easy to forget that salvation is more accurately salvation from the wrath of God because of sin.

Work out: 

The phrase “work out your salvation” is not about ‘figuring it out’ but working through to completion. Salvation is not like a treasure hunt in which cryptic clues are discovered and must be figured out. (That’s the Hollywood way.) Rather, God has made it clear how a person can be saved from His wrath due to sin. In addition, God has made it plain how followers of Jesus are to order their lives while living in this world. There is no mystery about God’s expectations for the saints.

So, working out one’s salvation is not a mystery that is individualized. The phrase was meant to encourage endurance. Work it through to completion. Don’t give up part way through. Remain loyal.

Obedience: 

Look at the phrase, “just as you have always obeyed.” The early Christians would have understood fully what they were to obey. Paul was referring to obedience in their Christian life. They were obedient to the teachings of Jesus and His apostles. This was what they had ‘always obeyed.’ It really is that simple. That admonition carries forward to us. We are encouraged to hold fast to the things that God has revealed to us in His written word. Again, it is not a mysterious code. There may be passages that are challenging, but God’s instruction is clear and simple.

Fear and Trembling: 

Many believers today latch hold of a scripture they like:, such as, Call on the Lord and you’ll be saved. Or, believe in the Lord and you’ll be saved. The New Testament teaches these things but not in the absence of obedience, purity, and loyalty.

Many wish to portray God as a tolerant friend instead of Creator. Other’s fixate on ‘Father’ forgetting that God is also our Judge and demands holiness. ‘Fear and trembling’ call us to soberness, to say the least.

Ancient Jericho trembled when Israel approached. The Bible says that there was no spirit in them any longer. That means that they trembled to the point of being virtually lifeless. They had lost all motivation to fight. They could not run or cry for help. They trembled, accepting certain defeat.

We must have confidence in God’s word because God keeps His promises. And yet we must also possess a sense of awe and reverence toward God. We are not to be scared, but fearful. 

There is no personalized instruction to you and me. So, every time we open God’s word we must recognize that individually we are the learner, the slave, the child. We must open God’s book for understanding. We must be serious about interpreting God’s word according to what He intended, not what it means to me. And we must be careful to apply God’s word in obedient allegiance to Jesus, our King. This is not done without reverence and awe toward God, and yes, a measure of fear and trembling.

Mark Stinnett

June 28, 2026

The Fearful Wrath of God

People are not afraid of God these days.

Startling events are recorded in Scripture in which God took action against those who had no regard for him, who rebelled, or who kept on sinning.

• God poured out His wrath on Israel when they rebelled against Him after having been delivered from slavery in Egypt. Read Exodus 32.
• God took the lives of two priests who had no regard for His instruction when they offered ’strange fire’ to God. Read Leviticus 10.
• God took the lives of all who followed Korah, Dathan and Abiram in their rebellion against God’s leadership. Read Numbers 16.
• During the period of the Judges Israel strayed from God into idolatry. For that, he allowed neighboring nations to oppress the people.

Prophets were sent to warn God’s people that He was about to take action against them due to their sin. The people mocked the prophets and would not listen. They were not afraid of God.

The descriptive language of the prophets warning Israel and Judah of God’s wrath is often terrifying. It was meant to be terrifying because God could not overlook the sins of the people. He wanted them to turn back to Him. So, He used vivid language that would communicate the terror of being the object of His wrath. There are no empty scare tactics with God. God is a God of justice and must take action against sin. It is His nature.

The prophet Ezekiel was sent with a message to idolatrous Judah. Recorded in the 21st chapter, God warned His people of His coming wrath. It was pictured as a sword. The sword was sharpened and polished. Yet, this sword was not an object of beauty. The sword was “sharpened to make a slaughter” and “polished to flash like lightning” (v. 10). The latter description is not about its appearance but more about the manner in which the sword struck, like a flash of lightning. The sword was sharpened and polished to be given into the hand of the slayer!

Ezekiel was told to clap his hands, presumably signaling the beginning of God’s destructive judgment. The sword would strike in a flash going to the left and then to the right suggesting a powerful double-edged sword. God’s judgment would be thorough and complete. He would also clap His hands together, “and I will appease My wrath” (v. 17).

The word translated ‘appease’ was used elsewhere in the Old Testament for rest or the idea of being settled. God’s wrath had been aroused by the sins of the people. It was appeased (settled) after His wrath had been poured out on the people as a destructive sword.

While God speaks through Ezekiel in rich figurative language, the meaning of the prophecy was clear. God had prepared a sword, and the figurative sword would come as a real king with a real army, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. God warned His people that He would use the nation of Babylon to carry out His divine judgment against them. That should have struck terror in their hearts and caused them to turn back to God. Foolishly, they did not. They did not fear God.

How foolish we are to read the Old Testament prophets as mere Bible stories. How foolish we are to read the warnings in the New Testament that tell us of God’s wrath because of sin and not feel a sense of dread. God has never lied in His warnings.

“It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God.”

Take the warnings seriously. 

Jesus will return. 

There will be a judgment. 

Only those who are in Christ are safe from God’s wrath!

Mark Stinnett

June 21, 2026

Us vs Them: 'Them'

We live in an ‘Us vs Them’ world. (See previous blogs.) There are those who are alive in Christ and those who are dead in their sins. This life and death description refers to one’s relationship with God.

The gospel message is specifically for those who are a part of the ‘them’ group. The gospel is God’s plea to those who are dead in their sins to change their thinking about Jesus and follow Him. But what about the rest, the ‘us’ group. What is our relationship to ‘them’?

First, we should possess an attitude of understanding and cooperation. ‘They’ do not live according to the word of God; they do not intend to do so. We who follow Jesus live according to the Spirit. Yet, we should not be surprised that they live according to the flesh. In fact, many of them will find it offensive if we try to make them live according to the word of God. Make no mistake, God will hold everyone accountable, but He does not force anyone to choose Jesus. Just read the next two verses after the famous John 3:16. Read what Paul preached in Acts 17, especially verses 29-31. Look it up.

God also instructed His people (us) through the Apostle Paul:

I wrote you in my letter not to associate with immoral people; I did not at all mean with the immoral people of this world, or with the covetous and swindlers or with idolaters, for then you would have to go out of the world. But actually, I wrote to you not to associate with any so-called brother if he is an immoral person, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or a swindler—not even to eat with such a one. 

--1 Corinthians 5:9-11

So, we live in this world, not in a cave in the hills or in a monastery cut off from civilization. God expects us to ‘rub elbows’ with them. In fact...

“If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.” 

--Romans 12:18

In order for us to be at peace with others, we will do well to remember…

Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.

--Romans 12:19

To follow that instruction means that there will be injustices in the world. We know that life is not fair, but we really need to embrace that fact and recognize that God will bring ultimate justice in the end. Until then, we await the Lord’s return which is delayed because of God’s patience…

The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. 

--2 Peter 3:9

We should be motivated by the compassion of Jesus when He was dying on the cross. He prayed to God…

“Father forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.”

Those words were not for the world of lost sinners, but specifically for those who had called for and carried out His death. We should realize that those who have not chosen to follow Christ really do not know what they are doing when they ridicule us, mock us, harm us. It is an expression of love to pray for our enemies, asking God to open a door of opportunity so that the gospel might be presented to them. It is an expression of mercy to show compassion when you are hurt instead of demanding justice.

Being at peace with 'them' calls for genuine love and mercy from 'us.'

Mark Stinnett

June 14, 2026

Us vs Them: "Us"

We live in an ‘Us vs Them’ world. (See last week’s blog.) Those who follow Jesus have been born again. They are alive in Christ. All others remain dead in their sins. So, what does God expect of 'us' while living among 'them.'

Before His death, resurrection and ascension, Jesus prayed for believers. He described His disciples to God by saying “they are not of the world.” Then He prayed, “I do not ask You to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one.” (John 17:15)

Why has God left disciples of Jesus in the world?

Primarily, it is for the advancement of the kingdom of God. There are direct and indirect ways in which 'we' can each help:

Advance the kingdom: 

Paul makes it very clear that not every Christian is a missionary or evangelist or preacher or teacher. Even when people were receiving spiritual gifts of a miraculous nature, the ‘speaking’ gifts were given priority. The ‘speaking’ gifts (prophecy, speaking in tongues, interpretation, teaching) were miraculous gifts given to spread the gospel message and teach the word of God. (See Romans 12 and 1 Corinthians 12 & 14.) In the book of Acts the primary role of the Holy Spirit was the advancement of the kingdom of God. After all, God desires for all men to come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9) So, some people are directly involved in spreading the gospel message and teaching God’s people.

Support those who do: 

Not every Christian is a preacher, teacher, missionary or evangelist. Those who do not fill those important roles can certainly support those who do. For many, support is about financial support. Indeed, those who speak God’s word full-time need financial support. And yet, participation in the advancement of the kingdom also includes prayer and personal support for those who preach and teach. When reading about the missionary journeys of Paul in the book of Acts it is clear that he depended on others for lodging, protection, moral support and sound advice. Seldom do you read about Paul being alone. In his letters he often mentioned by name many people who provided support of various kinds. Entire congregations also participated in the gospel with him as they sent gifts of support and supported him in prayer. You can support the gospel.

Explain your hope: 

God expects every Christian to be able to say something to explain their hope, that is, their expectation of eternal life. (1 Peter 3:15) You don’t have to be an apologist who has an answer for every question, from the existence of dinosaurs to the doctrine of the Trinity. You may not be able to explain why certain things are in the Bible. But you should be able to explain your conviction that your sins have been forgiven and that you will be raised from the dead when you die to live eternally with God.

Good works: 

God created us for good works. It is His expectation that every Christian engage in good works (Ephesians 2:10). Jesus said that we should let our light shine so that people see our good works and glorify God (Matthew 5:16). God knows that we may sometimes become weary of doing good. So, he provides encouragement so we will not give up. God is a kid of cheerleader for continuing in good works. It might not look like we are making a difference, but God see what is going on. (See Galatians 6:9; Hebrews 12:9; 2 Thessalonians 3:13; Revelation 2:3.)

Love one another: 

Love for our fellow saints in Christ is one of the most important attributes of a Christian. Jesus said that the world will know that we are his disciples if we love one another. (John 13:35)

Your contribution to the kingdom is important to God.


Mark Stinnett

June 7, 2026