For many years, skeptics of the Bible claimed that the Hittites were a fictional people. The Scriptures mention them often—from Abraham to David to Ezra—yet for centuries, archaeology had no evidence of their existence. That changed dramatically in the late 1800s and 1900s, when discoveries finally confirmed what the Bible had long recorded. Before looking at the archaeological evidence, it helps to see where the Hittites appear within the biblical timeline . A Biblical Overview of the Hittites Who Were They? The Bible identifies the Hittites as descendants of Heth , who was a son of Canaan , who was a son of Ham , one of Noah’s sons (Genesis 10:6, 15). “Sons of Heth” and “Hittites” are used synonymously throughout Scripture. Because we are working with genealogical ages rather than specific BC dates, it is most accurate to present the Hittites within the relative biblical timeframe , not as exact calendar years. The Hittites in the Patriarchal Era Abraham The Hittites appear prominently during Abraham’s lifetime: Genesis 23 – Abraham buys the cave of Machpelah from the sons of Heth . Genesis 25:8 – Abraham dies still dwelling among them. This places the Hittites firmly in the early patriarchal world. Isaac, Jacob, and Esau The next generation encounters them as well: Genesis 26:34 – Esau marries two Hittite women. Genesis 27:46 – Isaac and Rebekah fear Jacob will do the same. By this stage, Hittite families are clearly well established in the region of Canaan. Joseph By the end of Genesis, the Hittites are still present (Genesis 50:13), and at this point they have already existed for several centuries within the biblical narrative. The Hittites in the Time of Moses, Joshua, and the Judges Numbers 13:29 – During Moses’ day, the Hittites are listed among the peoples of Canaan. Joshua 3:10 – Joshua identifies them as one of the nations God will drive out. Judges 3:1 – They are still present among the remaining inhabitants after the conquest. This shows a continuous Hittite presence throughout Israel’s early national history. The Hittites in the Monarchy David 2 Samuel 11:3 – Uriah, one of David’s mighty men, is a Hittite. Solomon 2 Chronicles 8:7 – The Hittites remain among the populations under Solomon’s rule. The Hittites in the Post-Exilic Period Even after the Babylonian exile, the Hittites are still mentioned: Ezra 9:1 – Listed among the peoples of the land. Nehemiah 9:8 – Recalled again in recounting Israel’s history. This is the final biblical period in which they appear. Conclusion so far: From Abraham to Ezra and Nehemiah, Scripture presents the Hittites as a long-term, established people group present across many centuries of Israel’s history. Archaeological Discoveries That Confirmed the Hittites For centuries, critics argued that the Hittites were fictional because no archaeological evidence had been uncovered. That changed rapidly beginning in the late 19th century. 1887: The Tell el-Amarna Tablets In 1887, a cache of diplomatic letters was discovered at Tell el-Amarna in Egypt. These clay tablets, written in Akkadian, contain correspondence between the Egyptian pharaohs (Amenhotep III and Akhenaten) and surrounding kingdoms. Repeatedly in these letters, the Egyptians refer to a powerful northern kingdom called: “the land of Hatti” or “Khatti.” Scholars quickly recognized that this matched the biblical term “Hittite” linguistically, though at the time the culture behind these letters was not yet fully understood. 1906 and After: Hugo Winckler and the Royal Archive at Hattusa In 1906 , German archaeologist Hugo Winckler began excavating Boğazköy in modern Turkey. There he uncovered the ruins of Hattusa , the capital of the Hittite Empire. Among the findings: About 10,000 clay tablets and fragments from a royal archive. Correspondence, treaties, laws, mythology, and historical records. Documents written in the same language and terminology found in the Amarna letters. This discovery confirmed that the Hittites were not a minor tribal group but one of the major powers of the Late Bronze Age. 20th-Century Work: Tahsin Özgüç and the Anatolian Hittite World Beginning in the mid-20th century, Turkish archaeologist Tahsin Özgüç conducted more than fifty years of excavation at Kültepe (ancient Kanesh). His work yielded: Hittite-related inscriptions Administrative archives Artifacts, reliefs, and city structures Direct cultural links between the biblical world and the known Hittite empire By the time of his death in 2005, the cumulative evidence had firmly established the historical existence and significance of the Hittites. What the Evidence Shows Archaeology now confirms: A major Hittite empire existed in Anatolia (modern Turkey). The Egyptians interacted with this empire, as recorded in the Amarna letters. The language and names used in these inscriptions match the biblical terms. Hittite-related peoples lived in and around Canaan, as the Bible describes. The biblical references span many centuries, consistent with archaeological findings of widespread Hittite influence. While scholars distinguish between the imperial Hittites of Anatolia and various Hittite groups in Canaan, none of this contradicts Scripture . In fact, these findings have repeatedly strengthened the credibility of the biblical record. Conclusion: The Bible Was Ahead of the Archaeologists Long before archaeologists knew anything about Hattusa, the Amarna letters, or the tablets of Kültepe, the Bible consistently described a people called the Hittites living across many eras of Israel’s history. For centuries, critics claimed this was evidence of the Bible’s inaccuracy. But modern discoveries have overwhelmingly confirmed: The Hittites were real. They were powerful. They interacted with the great empires of their day. Their presence in the ancient world fits naturally with the biblical account. Once again, archaeology has moved in the Bible’s direction—not the other way around.

For many, Christmas is a season of joy, lights, and traditions. Families gather, gifts are exchanged, and cherished memories are formed. During this season, the story of Jesus’ birth is retold year after year. Yet, when we examine Scripture and history closely, there is no biblical command to celebrate Jesus’ birth on December 25—or on any day ( Luke 2:1-20 ). The Bible provides no instructions for observing a birthday; rather, it emphasizes remembering Jesus' life, death, and resurrection through the Lord’s Supper ( 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 ). While the exact date of Jesus’ birth is unknown, historical and biblical clues suggest it was likely not December 25. Luke mentions shepherds in the fields at night, pointing to a warmer season. Roman censuses—like the one Joseph and Mary traveled for—were typically conducted in milder months, not in winter. Early church records indicate December 25 was established centuries later, likely aligning with cultural festivals. And, Scripture’s focus is on Christ’s life, mission, and saving work—not a calendar date. That said, the season is not without significance. In a world filled with contradictory ideas about Jesus—some denying Him, others reshaping Him completely—this attention presents a unique opportunity. Even if imperfect, people are talking about Jesus, and every conversation is a door that can lead someone closer to the truth. We are often tempted to correct, argue, or even silently protest. Rarely does debate alone change hearts, and silence can miss opportunity. Instead, we can allow conversations to serve as bridges. When someone mentions Jesus’ birth, we can gently redirect the focus to who He really is: the Savior ( Luke 2:11 ), the Son of God ( Matthew 3:17 ), the One who offers forgiveness ( Luke 24:47 ), hope ( 1 Peter 1:3 ), and life ( John 11:25 ). The cultural picture of Jesus differs from the biblical one. Movies, songs, and decorations may emphasize a gentle infant in a manger, but rarely convey His mission, teachings, or ultimate sacrifice. Even amid these representations, we can help others see beyond traditions and images to the truth revealed in Scripture. We can point to the Jesus who healed the sick, spoke with authority, loved the marginalized, and willingly gave His life to bring us to God ( Mark 2:17, 1 Peter 3:18 ). This approach does not require protesting celebration outright, nor joining every custom uncritically. It is an invitation to think differently about honoring Jesus. The essence of our faith is not tied to a date, gift, or decoration—it is tied to Christ Himself ( John 15:4-5 ). Our ultimate celebration is not the pageantry of December 25, but the life-changing reality of following Jesus daily and remembering His death and resurrection through the Lord’s Supper. This season is an opportunity to be a light in a world darkened by distraction, doubt, and misinformation ( Matthew 5:14-16 ). When people engage with the story of Jesus—even in a simplified or cultural form—we can use it as a starting point, encourage curiosity, invite questions, and model a faith rooted in Scripture. In doing so, we honor the truth without dismissing the ongoing conversations around us. Ultimately, thinking biblically about Christmas is aligning our perspective with who Jesus is and what He came to accomplish. While we may not know His birthday, we do know His mission: to save, redeem, and draw people to Himself. When the world talks about Jesus—even imperfectly—we must engage. Often, the most effective way to point others to the real Jesus is through gentle guidance, thoughtful conversation, and a life reflecting His love ( 1 Peter 3:15-16 ). So, this season, whether we celebrate or not, do so thoughtfully. Let us honor Christ not by the calendar, but by the truth of His identity and the power of His work in our lives. Let us see conversations around us—not as annoyances to be corrected, but as opportunities to share the gospel. And let us remember that while December 25 may not mark Jesus’ birth, every day is an opportunity to proclaim His presence, love, and life-changing grace ( Psalm 96:2, Matthew 28:19-20 ).

In the first post, we saw how Proverbs teaches us to trust God, honor Him with our possessions, and choose contentment. But Proverbs also offers practical wisdom on how we work, warnings about wealth, and reminders of perspective. Work Diligently and Honestly Proverbs 16:26 says hunger drives a man to work. Work is honorable when done diligently. Proverbs 6:6-11 points us to the ant: a self-starter, disciplined, and prepared. Proverbs 10:4-5 says laziness leads to poverty, but diligence brings abundance. But Proverbs also warns us about how not  to make money: Stealing  (Proverbs 6:30-31). It won’t go unpunished. Dishonesty  (Proverbs 11:1; 21:6). God hates false scales and lying. Daydreaming  (Proverbs 13:4). Wishing doesn’t build wealth; work does. Greed for gain  (Proverbs 15:27). It destroys lives. Heed Warnings about Wealth Proverbs are realistic about money. It warns us about debt: “The borrower is slave to the lender”  (Proverbs 22:7). It warns about becoming surety—guaranteeing someone else’s debt (Proverbs 6:1; 11:15; 17:18). It also warns against haste: “The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty”  (Proverbs 21:5). Reflect on Perspective Some Proverbs challenge us to look deeper: Proverbs 13:7: “There is one who makes himself rich, yet has nothing; and one who makes himself poor, yet has great riches.” Proverbs 13:23: A righteous man leaves an inheritance. Wealth is a stewardship. Proverbs 14:20: “The poor man is hated even by his neighbor, but the rich has many friends…” Proverbs 18:23: “The poor man uses entreaties, but the rich answers roughly.” Money reveals perspective. Do we measure wealth by possessions, or by wisdom and righteousness? Conclusion Proverbs pulls back the curtain: wealth can bless or destroy, depending on how we use it. God calls us to work diligently, live honestly, avoid debt, and keep perspective. Mark these Proverbs in green—but more importantly, hide them in your heart. True wealth is not found in dollars or possessions, but in walking with God.

When it comes to wealth, everyone has an opinion. Some pursue it at all costs, while others see money as evil. The book of Proverbs helps us find balance. It teaches us how to handle wealth with wisdom, not greed, and reminds us that true riches come from God. Seek Wisdom Over Wealth Proverbs tells us that wisdom is worth far more than physical treasures. “A wise man will hear and increase in learning…” (Proverbs 1:5). In Proverbs 2:1-11, Solomon reminds us that seeking wisdom is better than seeking after hidden treasures. Proverbs 3:13-18 describes wisdom as more profitable than silver or gold. Today, that’s better than crypto, a bonus, or a six-figure salary. And Proverbs 23:23 urges us: “Buy the truth and do not sell it…”  In other words, pursue what lasts. Trust in the Lord, Not Riches We often trust in bank accounts, investments, or salaries to give us security. But Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” This includes our finances. Proverbs 11:28 warns, “He who trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will flourish like the green leaf.” Money can vanish quickly—just look at market crashes, wars, or economic shifts (Proverbs 23:4-5). Trust in God, not wealth, is the only sure foundation. Honor God with Your Possessions How can we honor God with money? Proverbs 3:9-10 tells us to give Him our first fruits. When we prioritize God, He blesses us. We also honor Him by providing for our families and caring for the poor (Proverbs 3:27-28; 11:24-26; 22:9; 14:31). Generosity reflects God’s heart. Stinginess dishonors Him. The question is: are we using our wealth to bless others, or just ourselves? Choose Contentment Over Greed Proverbs offer a series of “better than” statements that put money in perspective. “Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure with trouble”  (Proverbs 15:16-17). “Better to have righteousness than vast revenues without justice”  (Proverbs 16:8). “Better to get wisdom than gold”  (Proverbs 16:16). “Better is a dry morsel with quietness than a house full of feasting with strife”  (Proverbs 17:1). Contentment in the Lord is always better than wealth without peace. Conclusion Money is a tool, not a savior. Wisdom is far greater than riches. Proverbs remind us that when we trust God, honor Him with our possessions, and choose contentment, we will be truly rich toward Him.

Rahab is listed in Hebrews 11  as a great example of faith. But wait—didn’t she lie? And wasn’t she a prostitute? Yes… and yes. That’s a hangup for a lot of people. The primary story we have of Rahab the prostitute in the Bible is one where she lies to help God’s people . So why was she praised? Were the lies justified because they helped Israel? Do the ends justify the means? Let’s take a closer look. What About Lying? The Bible is crystal clear that lying is a sin: Exodus 20:16  – “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.” Proverbs 12:22  – “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight.” Psalm 101:7  – “No one who practices deceit shall dwell in my house; no one who utters lies shall continue before my eyes.” Ephesians 4:25  – “Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor.” Revelation 21:8   – “All liars… their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur.” There’s no way around it — lying is condemned throughout Scripture. What About Prostitution? Likewise, prostitution is consistently condemned: Leviticus 19:29  – “Do not profane your daughter by making her a prostitute…” Deuteronomy 23:17–18  – “None of the daughters of Israel shall be a cult prostitute…” Proverbs 6:26  – “For by means of a prostitute a man is reduced to a loaf of bread…” Hosea 4:11–12  – “A spirit of whoredom has led them astray, and they have left their God to play the whore.” Scripture leaves no question: prostitution, like lying, is sin. So How Could Rahab Be Praised? Hebrews 11 highlights examples of great faith , not perfect faithfulness. There’s a difference. Someone can believe in God’s power and truth (have faith) without yet living faithfully toward Him. That belief doesn’t make them righteous—it simply begins the journey. James explains it clearly: James 2:14, 17  – “What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him?... So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” Rahab’s faith moved her to act. She believed God was real and sided with His people. That was her first step of faith in action—but it didn’t mean she was instantly righteous in every area of life. Her lie wasn’t excused; her belief  was recognized. Faith That Leads to Obedience Faith is the seed; obedience is the fruit. Rahab’s faith would need to grow into a faithful, obedient life to be right before God. Romans 6:1–2  – “What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?” God’s grace never excuses sin—it calls us out of it. Rahab’s belief in God was the start of her transformation, not the end of it. Why This Matters Rahab’s story isn’t about justifying sin. It’s about how God can begin His work in anyone , no matter their past. Her faith was the spark that set her on a new path—a path that led her to become part of God’s people and even part of the lineage of Christ ( Matthew 1:5 ). Jesus often recognized faith before full obedience. All throughout His ministry, Jesus met people at the beginning  of faith — not the finish line. He often praised belief even in those who hadn’t yet fully turned their lives around. Their faith opened the door for grace to begin its transforming work. 1. The Centurion’s Great Faith ( Matthew 8:5–13; Luke 7:1–10 ) A Roman centurion — a Gentile soldier, not a follower of God’s law — came to Jesus asking for his servant to be healed. He believed that Jesus could heal just by speaking a word . Jesus said, “Truly, I tell you, with no one in Israel have I found such faith.” (Matthew 8:10) This man likely knew little about obedience to God or Jewish righteousness, yet Jesus marveled at his faith . His belief came before knowledge or transformation. Those would be required of him later, but had likely not yet occured. 2. The Woman With the Issue of Blood ( Mark 5:25–34 ) For twelve years this woman had suffered from bleeding, making her ceremonially unclean  under Jewish law. She wasn’t supposed to be in the crowd, much less touch anyone. But she believed that if she could only touch Jesus’ garment, she would be healed. Jesus said, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.” ( Mark 5:34 ) Her faith defied social and religious barriers. She was still unclean and outside the covenant community, yet Jesus honored the faith that reached toward Him. Closing Thought Rahab’s story teaches us that faith is where transformation begins , not where it ends. She believed—and that belief led her to act. But her lie and her past were still sins that needed to be left behind. God doesn’t glorify sin; He redeems sinners.

For a world where God is not, by many, followed and respected, we sure do hear His name a lot. I’m speaking, of course, about people using exclamations like: “ Oh my God! ” “ Jesus Christ! ” “ I swear to God! ” You may be thinking, “I say these things, but I don’t mean anything by it.” Meaning nothing is the issue. There should never be a time where the name of our Creator or Savior leaves our mouths with it meaning nothing. It is incredibly disrespectful for us to allow His name to mean so little to us. You can’t use phrases like the ones above and still hold true respect for God. It’s not possible. God’s Name Is Due Glory Psalm 29:2 (ESV) “Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness.” God’s name deserves glory , not casual use. It should never be reduced to a reaction word or filler in our speech. Psalm 111:9 (ESV) “Holy and awesome is his name!” His name is holy  and awesome  — words that describe something far beyond ordinary. We should treat it as such. Philippians 2:9–10 (ESV) “Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth.” The name of Jesus isn’t just a title — it represents His power, His authority, His sacrifice. One day every knee will bow at that name. To use it flippantly now is the utmost dishonor to our Lord and Creator. The Cunning of Satan Of all the things people could say when they’re surprised, hurt, or excited, why is it that the name of God  and our Savior  are used more than any other? Because Satan is cunning. 2 Corinthians 11:3 (ESV) “But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ.” What better way for Satan to deceive people into disrespecting and drifting from God than to make His name spoken constantly but meant rarely ? He doesn’t need people to stop saying God’s name. He just needs them to stop meaning it. By turning something sacred into something casual, Satan has dulled our reverence, replacing worship with habit and awe with apathy. The irreverence shown toward the name of God is one of the enemy’s most cunning and shameful tactics—yet sadly, one of his most successful. Restoring Reverence We need to bring back weight to the name of God.When we speak His name, it should be in worship, prayer, or proclamation—not in surprise, frustration, or anger. God’s name is not a reaction—it’s a revelation of who He is. Let’s not allow Satan to win by stripping meaning from the most powerful name in existence. Instead, let’s give that name the glory it deserves—because holy and awesome is His name.

In our last study, we considered Proverbs’ wisdom on God’s design for marriage, remembering that He sees, and recognizing the dangers of sexual sin. In this post, we’ll move forward with practical ways Proverbs teaches us to guard our hearts, avoid temptation, and replace sin with righteousness. 1.    Guard Your Heart and Mind Pornography begins in the heart before it manifests in action. Proverbs 4:23 : “Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life.” Proverbs 26:24-25  warns against disguising what’s in the heart. We must protect our thought life: limit access, avoid triggers, and fill our hearts with God’s word.  2. Avoid Tempting Situations Wisdom teaches us to flee, not flirt with temptation. Proverbs 5:8 : “Keep your way far from her…” Proverbs 22:3 : The prudent avoid danger; the naïve suffer for it. Guardrails, accountability, and planning ahead are essential. Don’t wait until temptation knocks—decide in advance to avoid the door. 3. Confess and Repent Proverbs 28:13 : “He who conceals his transgression will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will find compassion.” Pornography brings secrets, but God offers mercy and forgiveness. Confession is humbling, but it is also healing. Satan wants us to believe we can’t be forgiven, but God promises compassion to those who confess and forsake. 4. Pursue Discipline and Self-Control Proverbs 25:28 : “Like a city that is broken into and without walls is a man who has no control of his spirit.” Proverbs 6:27-28  warns that playing with lust will burn us. Pornography thrives where there’s no self-control. Discipline—through prayer, fasting, and godly habits—rebuilds our defenses. 5. Seek Accountability and Counsel Proverbs 27:17 : “Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” We need brothers and sisters who will challenge us, encourage us, and hold us accountable. There’s strength in numbers. 6. Replace Sin with Righteous Desires Pornography is counterfeit pleasure. God’s wisdom brings real joy. Proverbs 16:17 , 21:17 , 24:5 remind us that life, strength, and joy come from walking in righteousness. Don’t just say “No” to porn—say “Yes” to something greater: God’s word, service, love, and wisdom. Conclusion Pornography is one of the enemy’s most deceptive traps—it promises sweetness but delivers bitterness. Yet God’s word in Proverbs gives us the wisdom to fight back. Rejoicing in His design for marriage, guarding our hearts, avoiding temptation, confessing sin, and replacing counterfeit pleasures with true joy all lead to freedom.

Introduction This month, I’m sharing a two-part series from the book of Proverbs called Overcoming Pornography with Wisdom from Proverbs.  While Proverbs doesn’t use the word pornography, it paints a vivid picture of lust, temptation, and how to overcome it. Wisdom cries out to us (Proverbs 2:10-19), showing that God provides a way of escape. These posts are written to strengthen marriages, guard our hearts, and help us walk in integrity before God. Here is Part 1. We must always remember to trust in the LORD, Proverbs 3:5-8. I don’t need to share statistics about pornography. We’ve seen the devastation it causes in our lives, marriages, pulpits, and even most recently with a brother who had to be withdrawn from. Men and women of all ages are susceptible. It’s easy to say, “I would never…” but Proverbs 16:18 reminds us, “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before stumbling.” Proverbs vividly portrays temptation, lust, and the dangers of giving in. Wisdom cries out to us, giving us a way of escape. 1. Rejoice in God’s Design for Marriage The Proverbs remind us of the joy and intimacy between a husband and wife. Proverbs 5:15-20 : “Drink water from your own cistern…” This is God’s design for sexual intimacy—pure, holy, and to be enjoyed in marriage. Pornography distorts intimacy, but God’s way builds trust and joy. Proverbs 18:22 : “He who finds a wife finds a good thing…” Marriage is a blessing. Proverbs 19:14 : Marriage is a gift from the LORD. Pornography cheapens God’s design, but rejoicing in your spouse protects against it. 2. Remember God Sees Pornography thrives in secrecy and lies, but there is no hiding from God. Proverbs 15:3 : “The eyes of the LORD are in every place, watching the evil and the good.” He sees the bad, but He also sees the good when we walk in integrity. Remembering His watchful eyes helps us make holy choices. 3. Recognize the Danger of Sexual Sin Proverbs pull no punches about the consequences. Proverbs 5:3-14  describes the “lips of an adulteress.”  The application extends to pornography—what seems sweet turns bitter. It promises pleasure but brings shame, guilt, broken families, and ruined ministries. Proverbs 7:21-23  shows how young men are drawn in, unaware of the deadly consequences. Proverbs 22:14  reminds us of sin’s true end. Pornography always over-promises and under-delivers. We must see it for what it really is—deadly. Conclusion Pornography is not new. It’s just a modern version of an ancient temptation. But God’s wisdom shows us the path to freedom: rejoice in marriage, remember God sees, and recognize the true danger.

In Matthew 21:33–46 , Jesus tells a story that was both piercing and personal to His audience.It wasn’t just a nice illustration—it was a direct confrontation. The Context: A Challenge to Jesus’ Authority Backing up to verse 23 , Jesus is in the temple, speaking to the chief priests and elders. These religious leaders question Him: “By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?” Instead of answering directly, Jesus responds with His own question about the baptism of John. When they refuse to answer—fearing the reaction of the crowd—He refuses to answer them in return. But He doesn’t stop talking. He goes on to tell the parable of the two sons—one who says he’ll obey his father but doesn’t, and one who initially refuses but ultimately does the work. The point was clear: knowing the law means nothing if you don’t obey it. This was a direct call-out to these leaders for their failure to truly serve God. And then, to drive the message home even further, Jesus tells another parable: the Parable of the Wicked Tenants. The Vineyard and the Tenants The landowner in the parable represents God . The vineyard is God’s plan for His kingdom , and the tenants are those entrusted to care for it and bear fruit . In Israel’s history, that role belonged to the Jewish people—God’s chosen nation—tasked with playing a central role in bringing about His plan of redemption. They were to be faithful workers, tending the vineyard and producing fruit for the Master. But in this parable, the tenants reject their Master’s will. They refuse to give Him what is rightfully His. The Servants: God’s Messengers When the master sends servants to collect the fruit, the tenants beat, stone, and kill them. These servants represent God’s messengers—prophets, leaders, and teachers—sent to call His people back to faithfulness . Over and over, Israel rejected God’s messengers. They ignored the prophets’ warnings, resisted correction, and refused to prepare for the coming Messiah. From the earliest prophets to John the Baptist, the pattern was the same: messengers were sent, and messengers were rejected. The Son: The Final Messenger Finally, the landowner sends his son, thinking they will respect him. But instead, the tenants kill him, hoping to seize his inheritance. This is a clear picture of Jesus , the Son of God. After centuries of sending prophets, God sends His own Son to His people. Instead of receiving Him, the religious leaders plotted to kill Him—driven by fear of losing their power and position. They weren’t protecting God’s vineyard—they were trying to claim it for themselves. The Reversal: The Vineyard Taken Away When Jesus asks what the landowner will do, the leaders themselves answer: “He will put those wretches to a miserable death and let out the vineyard to other tenants who will give him the fruits in their seasons.” And then Jesus turns the parable back on them: “Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people producing its fruits” ( v. 43 ). They suddenly realize—they are the wicked tenants in the story. And rather than repenting, they become more determined to destroy Him. The Kingdom Given to Others The “new tenants” represent all who will receive Jesus and bear fruit for the kingdom —not just one nation, race, or heritage, but people from every background who choose to follow Him. God’s kingdom is no longer tied to one ethnic group. It belongs to those who hear, believe, and obey the Son. The Warning for Us This parable was a sharp rebuke to the religious leaders of Jesus’ day, but it still speaks today.We, too, have been entrusted with responsibilities in God’s vineyard. We are called to produce fruit—good works, faithful obedience, and a life that reflects our Master’s will. Rejecting Jesus, ignoring His word, or refusing to live for Him puts us in the same position as the tenants who were cast out. But receiving Him, submitting to His authority, and working faithfully in His vineyard makes us heirs of His kingdom. Let’s not be found as those who reject the Son. Instead, let’s be tenants who joyfully bear fruit for the Master.

“Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear.” Ephesians 4:29 Words are powerful! The Bible speaks often about the tongue. At West Main, we’ve studied the sins of the tongue, and one thing is clear: controlling our speech is an expectation from God. James reminds us: “If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man’s religion is worthless.” James 1:26 One sin of the tongue is gossip. The Scriptures give repeated warnings: “He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy conceals a matter.” Proverbs 11:13 Gossip destroys trust, ruins reputations, and tears down relationships. Brothers and sisters in the first century were warned: “But refuse to put younger widows on the list, for when they feel sensual desires in disregard of Christ, they want to get married, thus incurring condemnation, because they have set aside their previous pledge. At the same time they also learn to be idle, as they go around from house to house; and not merely idle, but also gossips and busybodies, talking about things not proper to mention…” 1 Timothy 5:11–13 What Is Gossip? Definitions help us see it clearly: “A statement in general circulation without confirmation or certainty of facts.” ( Dictionary.com ) “Rumor or talk of a personal, sensational, or intimate nature. A person who habitually spreads intimate or private rumors or facts.” (American Heritage Dictionary) The Bible goes even deeper. In 1 Timothy 5:13 , translations use words like “gossips,” “tattlers,” or “talking foolishly.” These women were over-interested in the affairs of others, spreading things “not proper to mention.” In 1 Timothy 3:11 , Paul warns against “malicious gossips” or slanderers. The Greek word is diabolos—often translated as “Devil.” Gossip reflects Satan’s work as the adversary and accuser. It involves hostile intent (cf. 2 Timothy 3:3; Titus 2:3). Gossip is ungodly and must be avoided. How Do I Know If I’m Gossiping? James urges us to be “quick to hear, slow to speak” (James 1:19). That alone would prevent much gossip. But we can also ask ourselves: Should I be sharing this? (Proverbs 11:13) What is my purpose for sharing this? (3 John 9–11) If the purpose is not to build up or bring grace, then it doesn’t belong on our lips. The Damage of Gossip We know the dangers, but let’s be reminded: It shows a lack of spiritual maturity and hinders others. It breeds distrust and suspicion. It destroys friendships (Proverbs 17:9). It damages our influence (Colossians 4:5–6). It fails to follow the example of Jesus (Ephesians 4:29–5:2). A Better Way Instead of gossip, let’s speak words that build up, encourage, and give grace. Let us be hearers and doers of the Word. Let us choose trustworthiness over talebearing. The devil thrives on gossip. God calls us to something better. Let’s avoid gossip at all costs.

In Luke 17:7–10 , Jesus tells His disciples a parable that doesn’t often get the same attention as some of His other stories. But it’s a powerful reminder about humility, faithfulness, and our place in God’s kingdom. The Setting Unlike many parables aimed at the Pharisees or other critics, this one is spoken to Jesus’ disciples—men who were eager to learn from Him. At the start of Luke 17 , Jesus warns them about temptation and the seriousness of causing others to stumble. Then, in verse 5 , the apostles say to Him: “Increase our faith!” Jesus responds first with the image of a mustard seed—tiny, yet capable of producing something great. Faith doesn’t have to start big to accomplish great things, but it must grow. And then, instead of promising to “increase their faith” for them, Jesus tells a story about a servant and his master. The Parable “Will any one of you who has a servant plowing or keeping sheep say to him when he has come in from the field,‘Come at once and recline at table’? Will he not rather say to him, ‘Prepare supper for me, and dress properly, and serve me while I eat and drink,and afterward you will eat and drink’? Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded? So you also, when you have done all that you were commanded, say,‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.’” ( Luke 17:7–10 ) Servants and Their Master In the parable: The master represents God. The servant represents Christians—in this immediate context, the apostles themselves. The servant’s obligation is simple: fulfill the master’s will before tending to his own needs. The master’s priorities come first. That’s the natural, expected relationship between a servant and a master. In the same way, God’s will must come before our own. We may care for our needs, but always within the boundaries and timing He sets. God as the Perfect Master In Jesus’ illustration, a good master makes his expectations clear and provides for his servants so they can succeed. God does this perfectly. Clear instructions: We have His word—an entire book laying out His will for our lives. He’s not vague about what He expects. Provision: God gives what we need to accomplish His work. He equips us for service and promises to care for us. Following His will benefits us, too. God’s ways lead to stronger relationships, wiser decisions, and better stewardship of life’s resources. Sin complicates and destroys; obedience builds and blesses. No “Thank You” Expected This is the part that can sound harsh: the master doesn’t say “thank you” to the servant for doing his job. Why? Because it’s the servant’s duty. The servant already receives the agreed-upon provision—food, clothing, shelter. Similarly, God doesn’t owe us gratitude for doing His will. Serving Him is our obligation. In our daily jobs, we don’t expect our boss to throw a party every time we complete an assignment. We simply do what we were hired to do and receive our wages. “Unworthy Servants” Jesus tells us to view ourselves as “unworthy” (or “unprofitable”) servants. That doesn’t mean our work is meaningless—it means our service doesn’t put God in our debt. We don’t “add value” to Him in the sense of increasing His worth. God is perfect and self-sufficient. But He chooses to let our work add value to His kingdom . That’s an incredible privilege—but it’s still not about us. It’s about Him. We don’t work to shine a light on ourselves, to earn salvation, or to make ourselves “worthy.” We work because it’s what we ought to do. The Heart of the Lesson This parable is about humility and perspective: Serving God is our duty —not a favor we’re doing for Him. Obedience doesn’t earn extra credit —we’re simply doing what’s expected. The reward is by God’s grace —not because we deserve it. The apostles asked Jesus to increase their faith. His answer? You grow it yourself—like a mustard seed—through steady, humble service. Work hard, be faithful, and remember: you’re serving the Master, not working for applause. For Us Today It’s tempting to want recognition for what we do in the kingdom. But Jesus says that’s not the point. God already promised the greatest possible reward—eternal life with Him—not because we earned it, but because He loves us. Our role is clear:Serve faithfully. Put His will first. Do the work not for praise, but because it’s what we ought to do. And at the end of the day, when we’ve done everything commanded of us, our response should be: “We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.”

A while ago, I wrote a bulletin article on retaining more of what we read in the Bible, and I was encouraged by the positive feedback. God’s word must always be a priority for His people. He has given us His word so we can both read it and understand it. Paul said in Ephesians 3:3-5 :“…That by revelation there was made known to me the mystery, as I wrote before in brief. By referring to this, when you read you can understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, which in other generations was not made known to the sons of men, as it has now been revealed to His holy apostles and prophets in the Spirit…” Notice three truths: Paul received revelation from God. He wrote it down. He wrote it so others (including us) could read and understand. From Genesis to Revelation, God has given us His words so that we might know Him. Yes, some passages are challenging—Peter himself admitted that some of Paul’s writings were “hard to understand” ( 2 Peter 3:16 ). But that shouldn’t discourage us. The Bible is a lifetime study, and God’s word is “living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword” ( Hebrews 4:12 ). Like many of you, I’ve struggled at times with consistency in daily Bible reading. Recently, however, I began something new with two brothers: a group we call “Arise and Build” (from Nehemiah’s work in rebuilding Jerusalem’s wall, Nehemiah 6:15 ). We committed to a 52-Day Challenge where we meet daily for Bible reading and prayer. Here’s how we’ve approached it: The first time through Nehemiah (13 chapters), we simply read a chapter each day and discussed what we learned. The second time, we each prepared a brief outline of every chapter and compared notes. We also asked, “What’s one word that describes this chapter?” to help retain what we read. The third time, we’ll expand our outlines with more details. The fourth time, we plan to use colored pencils to mark themes—locations, people, prayers, sins, and more—so the text locks deeper into our memory. It’s not fast, but it’s effective. Slow and steady builds lasting understanding. By the end, we’ll each have a thorough outline of Nehemiah—and more importantly, we’ll have saturated our minds with God’s word. If you’ve struggled with Bible reading, consider studying with someone else. When our 52 days are up, we plan to start again and invite others to join. If 13 chapters feels overwhelming, try something smaller. Read Jude or 3 John (just one chapter) every day for a week. Or meditate on 10 verses at a time. The key is simple: Arise and Build. Take the step. Be intentional. Open God’s word again and again. As Paul wrote: “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ” ( Romans 10:17 ).