Apprentice 2 Jesus

Common English Bible

  • God’s Slaves

    In 1 Peter 2 there is a strong admonition to live honorably, and that includes submission to human institutions. Peter then goes on to talk about submission to the emperor. (They didn’t get to “elect” the emperor, either.) Peter’s basis for appealing to Christian’s for submission to human institutions is this: “Do this as God’s… Read more

  • Immigrants and Strangers

    As James K.A. Smith would say in his book, Desiring the Kingdom, everything calls for allegiance. All of life has liturgies all around. Which liturgy will call out for our allegiance and we will respond? We are in the thick of political season in the U.S. Let’s face it, as long as there is a… Read more

  • Strengthening Our Resolve

    In case you haven’t heard, we’ve reached the end of the world. I find it interesting there is far more interest in the Mayan calendar and how it might be right, while we readily dismiss Christians who regularly predict the end of the world. So, the end is upon us. Unless, of course, it’s not.… Read more

  • Latest News on the Common English Bible

    The Common English Bible seems to keep rolling along. “There’s a reason the Common English Bible is receiving such a positive and popular reception,” says Paul Franklin, PhD, associate publisher. “It’s probably the most literal Bible translation, built on common ground with academic rigor and denomination neutrality, which clearly communicates ancient sacred text in understandable… Read more

  • Knowing and Doing Are Two Different Things

    There are different definitions of “sin” throughout Scripture, but James weighs in on this one: 17 It is a sin when someone knows the right thing to do and doesn’t do it. (James 4:17, CEB) We can know all day long what the right thing to do is… and just not do it. We can… Read more

  • Willing to Yield

    My wish for the political season as it kicks off: Everyone running for office needs to read the Book of James. Knowing that will not happen, I am still struck by the words compared to the political arena. 17 What of the wisdom from above? First, it is pure, and then peaceful, gentle, obedient, filled… Read more

  • Giving Without a Second Thought

    A refreshing look at James 1:5 from the Common English Bible. First, the NIV 2011: 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. Common English Bible: 5 But anyone who needs wisdom should ask God, whose very… Read more

  • The Advantage of Adversity

    The old saying goes, “Live and learn.” I have found that isn’t necessarily true. There was a friend in college who just didn’t really understand the purpose of the speed limit. Not understanding the speed limit in Wisconsin in those days was costly. He was winging his way through Wisconsin one year with some friends… Read more

  • The Hope That is Christ

    “Glory to God in heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors.” (Luke 2:14, CEB)   Christ is born! He came to bring peace. HIS life will make the difference. Life in Christ will make the difference.   One of the things I reflected on in my message on Christmas Eve was the… Read more

  • Behold! The Baby Wrapped in a Snuggie!

    This will teach me to read more slowly! As I was reading the Luke 2 account in my Common English Bible I had to do a double take in v. 12. I honestly thought it read: “you will find a newborn baby wrapped in a snuggie…” Upon further review: 12 This is a sign for… Read more