The Bible talks about only one sin that cannot be forgiven and that is “blasphemy against the Holy Spirit” (Matt. 12:31 and Mark 3:28-30) Once, when Jesus did miracles to show God’s great power, some religious leaders accused Jesus of having an evil spirit- they said He was using the power of Satan to do miracles.
Preteens are emotional by nature for a variety of reasons including hormonal changes, fatigue, peer group expectations and self-imposed demands. At a stage in life when parents and friends may not know how to deal with their mood swings, we need to of¬fer a safe harbor where these kids can be real.
The Holy Spirit has given us help in the form of other believers. When I correspond with other believers I often greet them with the hope that the day finds them consciously walking in the presence of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
There’s been lots of bad news lately—a tsunami, hurricanes, bombings, wars and other scary events. Some say these disasters are signs the world is ending soon. This world will end one day. But other things must happen first. The Bible helps us understand God’s plan so we won’t be afraid.
The children were cheering as the review game ended. Quickly Lisa held up her hand and said, “Show me you’re being quiet by raising your hand!” One by one, hands went up as the group quieted. Early elementary children learn through varied activities.
People today have lots of different beliefs about God. Every belief is either right or wrong. If a belief is right that means it is based on a fact-it’s true and you can count on it. If a belief is wrong it is based on a lie. No matter how much you believe in a lie or wish it was true your false belief will never change the facts.
Juniors are known for flocking to crowds like those that “hang” at the malls. But they also long to belong to a core network of caring people who know, understand and accept them. Such support is also vital to their development.* The junior child needs relationships and healthy small groups are key to meeting this need.
Jesus looked at the city of Jerusalem and was moved. Not because of the crumbling buildings, the roads in disrepair, or the billboards that needed to be replaced.
The Bible definition of faith is “The substance of things not seen” (Heb. 11:1). Go on to read the rest of the chapter and you will find a list of Old Testament people who had faith in God and obeyed Him even though they couldn’t see Him with their eyes.