PHall | September 13, 2012
A Resurrection-less Christianity. Satan has excised the centrality of resurrection from Christianity. First, by deceiving people into believing Jesus was only metaphorically resurrected therefore removing Jesus’ physical resurrection (Jn.20.27). Second, by removing resurrection from 1) the act and 2) purpose of baptism through removing immersion as a physical symbol of resurrection (Col.2.12). Third, by removing [...]
PHall | June 23, 2012
Janet and I have decided to adopt again. I would like to introduce you to our newest son, Sam. He is a shovel. More on Sam later. There are certain realities within the Bible that make our modern sensibilities uncomfortable or even offended. These “archaic” realities are either God-based or society-driven. “Wives be subject to [...]
PHall | December 9, 2011
It is fitting that baptism is an immersion imitating a burial. Under the water the eyes are closed, the breathing stopped, and death is imitated. Rising out of the water we open our eyes anew and breathe in life again. Yes, it is fitting that baptism imitates a resurrection.
PHall | November 3, 2011
“But now” suggests that possibly a practical application is that with young Christians you begin with the sins of the flesh and then work up to other sins. These are those other sins which is seen in Paul’s language, “But now you must also put away” (3:8). “Now you” is emphasized in the Greek to [...]
PHall | November 3, 2011
Having clothed yourself with Christ, do you feel superior to unbelievers? Admitting Christians still sin, are you in a “better class” of sinners? In putting on Christ, we are to put away sins. It is a command. It is a command that is never quite being finished obeying because of our disobeying. Paul’s list here [...]
PHall | September 11, 2011
There are two words I believe every mother has uttered – “be careful.” I think these words are more often spoken to first born children, than latter born. It goes from “be careful, or you’ll get hurt” to “Be careful that you don’t get any blood on the carpet.” Paul warns also “be careful.” And [...]
PHall | September 11, 2011
After hearing me preach, several times people have asked, “So, where did you go to preacher’s school?” When I tell them, “I didn’t” they respond somewhat ambiguously, “Oh.” And I think, “Oh, I that explains it.” Or “Oh, “I’m not surprised.” I doubt Paul’s description of his ministry would be accepted in a school of [...]
PHall | July 23, 2011
Brethren. Do we comprehend and appreciate the historical depth and spiritual ramifications of this word? Paul used this term over one hundred times in his writings (i.e., Col.1:2). A word that often chosen must be significant. And remember, ultimately, God through His Holy Spirit, is behind every word written by inspiration. The Jews used the [...]
PHall | July 23, 2011
Paul claiming that he is, “an apostle of Christ Jesus by God’s will” is not simply a throw-away line in introducing himself to the Colossians who he has never met (1.4). Neither is it simply a title of superior rank. There is no rising in ranks in Christianity, just becoming what we are not by [...]
PHall | July 25, 2010
Detained by the authorities from the Bureau of Religious Affairs. Interrogated by the same. Warned that if what occurred in 2008 happens again, the warning will turn into something not so kind. Six officials from the Communist regime of China sitting in front, behind and to the side, all are speaking Chinese. None of us [...]
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