born and raised twice in the bay, I preach Jesus and him crucified
Philosopher in Contemplation, By Rembrandt “The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him.” (Proverbs 18:17, ESV) It is easy to hear a story and take it at face value. The first version always sounds convincing. The details line up, the emotion is strong, and the whole thing... Continue Reading →
The vision of messianic hope within Jewish communities was dynamic, responding to shifting historical and political landscapes. Early visions of a Davidic monarch ruling a restored Israel gradually expanded into expectations of a cosmic redeemer with a role in universal restoration. Jewish communities interpreted and reimagined messianic hope in response to their lived experiences. As... Continue Reading →
The idea that the Hebrew Bible tells a story that ultimately leads to Jesus is not new. It is how the earliest followers of Jesus understood it. From the moment He began teaching, Jesus reshaped how people read their Scriptures. He told His disciples that the Law, the Prophets, and the Psalms were all pointing... Continue Reading →
What Does a Hard-Working Preacher Actually Do? A while back, someone asked what it would take to define a hard-working preacher. Not just someone with a title, but a minister who really puts in the work. The New Testament has plenty to say about that. It paints a picture of someone who is dedicated, persistent,... Continue Reading →
Our lives are full of seemingly endless choices. It’s a pattern you see in life again and again: Take the harder road now and discover freedom later. Take the easier road now and let the struggle catch up to you later. When you stretch yourself, sometimes facing discomfort head-on, the ripple effects can change everything.... Continue Reading →
Phillip W. Martin 