born and raised twice in the bay, I preach Jesus and him crucified
When I first became a preacher and husband, I thought I had everything figured out. I believed my ability to lead came from hard work, knowledge, and pushing through whatever came my way. I didn’t realize that pride was creeping in, making things more complicated than they needed to be. Looking back, I see that... Continue Reading →
At first, the wedding at Cana and Jesus' crucifixion seem like disconnected scenes. One is a joyful celebration, while the other is heavy with pain and loss. But John weaves these moments together, showing us how they both point to something bigger—Jesus' mission, the unveiling of His glory, and the new creation He brings. The... Continue Reading →
The Letter to the Hebrews is one of the New Testament's most mysterious and theologically rich writings. While we do not know who wrote it, suggestions include Paul, Barnabas, Apollos, and Priscilla. However, the author's identity matters less than the letter's powerful message. Hebrews was written to Jewish Christians, likely living near Judea, who were... Continue Reading →
The gift of the Holy Spirit preceded the gifts of the Holy Spirit "And Peter said to them, 'Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'" (Acts 2:38, ESV) "Now there are varieties... Continue Reading →
"If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed. Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather trainyourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness... Continue Reading →
Phillip W. Martin 