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)

Extended Studies

This is a collection of studies that cover many posts. They may be about a topic. Or they may cover an extended passage or book.

A glorious and inexpressible joy

1 Peter: Glorious Joy, In All Kinds of Trials (1:6-9)

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In 1 Peter 1:6-9, we find that we can experience a glorious joy in the midst of great trials. Because we are receiving the goal of our faith.

because of his great mercy

1 Peter: Because of His Great Mercy (1:3-5)

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In 1 Peter 1:3-5 Peter tells us that because of his mercy for us, God has given us a new birth into a living hope and into an imperishable inheritance.

An Introduction to First Peter

1 Peter: An Introduction

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First Peter is a very practical letter written to scattered believers who are suffering for their faith. It is a letter full of encouragement and challenge.

spiritual warfare

Ephesians: Spiritual Warfare (6:10-20)

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A spiritual battle is raging all around us. Take up the armor God provides, stand your ground, and join in the fight.

the Bride of Christ

Ephesians: The Bride of Christ (5:25-32)

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One image of the church in the New Testament is the Bride of Christ. It pictures the intimate relationship between Christ and his church.

Life in the Family

Ephesians: Life in the Family (5:21-6:9)

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Paul's instructions to first century families contains useful information for families today. It also contains advice for workplace relationships.

Ephesians: Imitators of God (5:1-20)

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Don't be like the world around you. Instead, be imitators of God by living a life of love, living as a child of the light, and living with wisdom.

the doctrine of last things

The Doctrine of Last Things

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The doctrine of last things includes the global events preceding Christ's return, as well as the more personal aspects; what happens to me in the end.

put on the new self

Ephesians: Put on the New Self (4:17-32)

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How can I be an effective member of the body of Christ? Take off the old self and put on a new self. One made in the image of Christ.

Ephesians: Growing a Mature Church (4:11-16)

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Christ provides his church with the necessary equippers to that we can be a mature church, fully equipped to do the work he has called us to.

walking worthy

Ephesians: Walking Worthy (4:1-6)

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What does walking worthy of our calling mean? In the context of Ephesians 4:1-6, it refers to our role in the body of Christ. Be the best member you can be.

rooted and established

Ephesians: Rooted and Established In Love (3:14-21)

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Paul prays that the Ephesians would be rooted and established in love, a suitable dwelling place for the Holy Spirit.