George Alvarado The Parable of the Talents is more than just about “talents.” A lot more! But how are these talents typically portrayed? Money, time, power, resources? So often we hear sermons on this text, and so much time and ink are spent describing what the talents symbolically represent, and we often whiff it. What It’s About … Read more
Below is a teaching outline that I’ve used to train others concerning the process and purpose of church discipline. In short, church discipline is for convincing the wayward of their sin and restoring them. I pray it would be beneficial for your congregations. Scripture References Matthew 18:15 “If your brother sins against you, go and … Read more
Pastor Joel Beeke has featured his twelve points concerning how to deal with criticism on many podcasts and conferences. I felt it necessary to share the 12 Points here, provide short points based upon my own experience (and Beeke’s), and share the several links below where he has discussed these in more detail. Though these … Read more
Dr. William Varner is a well-established Master’s University professor and experienced linguist. His exegetical and historical skill is fairly known among those within the biblical linguistics community, and those who have heard him speak at the seminary, or as a guest speaker. Nevertheless, as skilled as Dr. Varner is, this book has some theological concerns … Read more
There is a common misunderstanding concerning Hebrews 4:15: “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. (ESV; bold emphasis mine) What happens during our bible studies, or even when sharing our trials, … Read more
Enjoying communion with your local church is truly a blessed time. It is not only a sober and convicting remembrance of our Lord’s death, burial, and resurrection, but it is also a joyous celebration concerning our salvation and His return (1 Cor. 11:26). This means of grace is truly an essential ordinance to our worship … Read more
Hello brothers and sisters! Michael Coughlin, Allen Nelson, Chuck Ivey, Dave Mitchell, and George Alvarado need your help. We write at Things Above Us and desire our audience and subscriptions to expand. So in essence, we just need three things. If you can help with one or more of these, that would be awesome. Help … Read more
In Hebrews 12:2, the key phrase “looking unto Jesus” is often quoted, but popularly misunderstood in light of its context. In general, every Christian knows we should always keep our eyes on Jesus. And in the midst of the troubles we face, it’s even more important to stay focused on Him as the apple of … Read more
The picture showcased on this blog is my front yard. It was “scorched,” not by typical Texas heat, but from freezing temperatures we recently experienced. One thing I noticed was that cold weather produced the same visual results that scorching heat does. This made me think of how God operates in our trials and afflictions. … Read more
I recently had the privilege of officiating two weddings. And what a treat it was! But because of our “pandemic” and wildfires, there were plenty of details that made these events, well…special. First, in an effort to honor the godly couples, I must point out that they were herculean in patience and understanding. The restrictions … Read more
Did you know that Satan and Job asked God a similar question? Of course, Satan’s questioning was meant for evil, but God permitted it for Job’s good. Nevertheless, when we probe the question(s) that Satan and Job directed toward the LORD, we see very similar pursuits, but from two different perspectives. And both confront us … Read more
Author’s note: After almost taking a year off of writing because of trials and transition from military to retirement, and after a year I wrote An Open Letter to Afflicted Saints, I thought I would share another shade of truth that I pray will help those who are currently enduring a season of suffering. Originally … Read more