A Clay Jar

Encouraging, comforting, and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory. (1 Thess. 2:12 NIV)

A Clay Jar Blog Posts

Joyful in trials

Joyful in the Trials of Life – James 1:2-4

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How do you respond when life hands you lemons? James calls on us to be joyful in our trials. They help us to grow in maturity.

On This Rock I Will Build My Church – Matthew 16:15-18

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Jesus said that on this rock I will build my church. What is this church that Jesus will build on the rock. And what is the purpose of that church?

church ordinances

Church Ordinances

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Jesus left his church with two ordinances, baptism and the Lord's Supper. As we participate in these, we can remember what he has done for us

Foot washing

Foot Washing As an Act of Discipleship – John 13:1-15

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One of the last things Jesus did with his disciples was to wash their feet. And then instructed them to do likewise. How should we respond to this today?

a beautiful tree

A Beautiful Tree

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Some people have been battered and bruised by life. Yet they continue to get back up and shine. Like a beautiful but gnarly old tree.

creation and the big bang

Creation and the Big Bang

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Is the story of creation in Genesis incompatible with the Big Bang? While some advocate they are, I do not believe that to be the case.

what does God require

What Does God Require? – Micah 6:8

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What does God require of me? Salvation is by faith, not by works. But God does expect me to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.

homosexuality and the Bible

Homosexuality and the Bible

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What does the Bible have to say about homosexuality? The same thing it does about greed. It is wrong. But it is my place to love, not judge.

why I believe in God

Top 10 Reasons Why I Believe in God

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This post is a light-hearted look at 10 reasons why I believe in God. They are likely not convincing but may help in understanding why I do.

being an apologist

Being an Apologist

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Apologetics is a branch of theology that all believers should practice. It is simply giving an answer to those who ask about your faith,

what makes for a healthy church?

What Makes a Healthy Church

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What makes for a healthy church? There are a number of factors to look for. And they are mostly similar to what makes a healthy person.

responding to insult

Responding to Insult – 1 Peter 2:18-25

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Responding to insults, especially because of our faith in Christ, is hard. No one likes to be insulted. But we should follow Christ's example.