When is something lovely? This article shows how loveliness is related to love. It shows how loveliness is portrayed in covering sin and forgiveness. Therefore Christians must meditate on things that are lovely as commanded in Philippians 4:8.

rom Exodus 16:13-21], this article shows that God gave His people the Sabbath as an expression of their trust and dependency on God. It is a statement that says God’s people find their rest in trusting God and not in material possessions. 

This article is an exposition of Psalm 127. This is a song of ascents sung by the pilgrims on their way up to Jerusalem — as well as dur­ing their stay in the city. It’s the 8th psalm of ascents — and it sits at the centre and heart of this mini psalter. I wonder if that’s significant. Perhaps, both by position and theme it’s stressing the point that if our lives are to be worthwhile and meaningful, the Lord must be at the centre and heart of all our activities. Without the Lord everything is pointless.

Is there responsible gambling? This article shows that all forms of gambling are forbidden since it is the misuse of God’s gifts. Gambling is contrary to biblical stewardship. 

This article is an exposition of Psalm 128. This psalm follows naturally from the previous one, in which the Lord is spoken of as the builder of the home. This psalm is an overview of a godly man’s life. It sweeps through the stages of life from marriage, to children and grandchildren — all in the space of six verses. How time flies! It’s a psalm that reflects on life.

In Heaven the saints celebrate the justice of God. This is because God is just in His character and as a result He is the just judge who will give justice to the wicked and the  righteous. 

This article is an exposition of Psalm 133. This is a brief but beautiful psalm extolling the value and virtues of Christian fellowship. It’s a charming and challenging psalm. It’s a psalm of David. Perhaps it was written when he became king over all Israel; or when he brought the ark to Jerusalem — thus linking it with Psalm 132. It was a very appropriate psalm for the ancient pilgrims to sing as they met in assembly with other worshippers in Jerusalem. It’s still a very appropriate psalm to sing when believers gather together in fellowship.

This article is an exposition of Psalm 131. Though one of the shortest psalms, it’s one of the hardest to learn. Why? Because it’s all about humility and contentment and peace in our hearts — which doesn’t exactly come easy. Paul said, ‘I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content’ (Phil. 4:11). He was not (we gather) a naturally contented person. He didn’t suffer fools gladly. That may explain why God sent him a thorn in the flesh (2 Cor. 12:1-10). God intended to humble him because without humility there is no true holiness.

This article is an exposition of Psalm 132. This psalm of ascents is all about Jerusalem, Zion, David and his hopes and vision of the future. Imagine the pilgrims standing in Jerusalem admiring the city and the magnificent Temple. They are reminded of the driving force of the man behind it. They recall the trouble and effort that David expended to see it built.

This article is an exposition of Psalm 130. It’s part of the section of psalms entitled ‘Psalms of Ascents’ that the ancient pilgrims sang on their way up to Je­rusalem. But it also ascends spiritually; it begins in the depths of loneliness, distress and despair and rises to the heights of faith, assurance and exhortation. As we approach this psalm, I’d suggest it tells us two things we should know, and two things we should do.

This article is an exposition of Psalm 129. Psalm 129 compares with Psalm 124. Both speak of sore affliction and wonderful deliverance. Both begin with words which are repeated in the first two verses. In both the song leader uses the familiar exhortation, ‘let Israel now say.’ In this psalm, Israel is exhorted to remember her past afflictions and suffering; and to recall God’s faithfulness and righteousness.

Christians are called to live a dignified and honourable life. This article shows from different biblical texts and age groups about living a life of dignity. 

How can Christians maintain their purity when faced with so much impurity? This article shows that purity is both an attitude and moral issue. It is by using the impurity of this world to meditate on purity. Living out a pure life daily, and filling yourself with pure things as commanded in Philippians 4:8. 

This article is about church history in Scotland. Focus is given to the decision to the training of the divinity students. Having them trained in higher criticism had an impact on the Free Church of Scotland. 

This article is about church history in Scotland. Focus is given to the formation of the Free Presbyterian Church as result of their secession from the Free Church of Scotland. 

This article is an exposition of Romans 15:14-33. It shows Paul’s attitude towards the ministry and how it can exemplary to us. Read on…

This article shows that the tenth commandment finds its context in the Sabbath. By observing the Sabbath the church proclaims her satisfaction in God, the she lives by His gifts and this guards against coveting.

This article is an exposition of Romans 10. It shows that God cannot be blamed for the unbelief of Israel. It is through their disobedience in rejecting Christ and the gospel that they have themselves to blame.

This article is an exposition of Romans 8:28. It shows that a Christian knows the following: God works, God is at work for our good, God is working for our good in all things, and this is for only those who love Him. 

The church has the task to reach out to unbelievers through mission work and evangelism. This article shows how Paul is an encouragement in this by being a bridge builder and working for God’s glory. It draws implications for the leadership of the church in terms of qualification of elders and their work. 

This article is an exposition of Romans 16:17-27] It discusses people to avoid, people to associate with, and ends with all glory be to God.

This article is an exposition of Romans 8:18-27. It discusses the groaning of creation, believers and the Holy Spirit.

This article is an exposition of Romans 14. It shows the manner in which Christians are to deal with matters which are not very important by avoiding debate, exercising love and being considerate of others.

This article is an exposition of Romans 11. It tackles the identity of all Israel, while pointing to the plan of God’s purpose for the inclusion of Gentiles.

After 11 chapters of doctrine telling us what to believe, we now turn (perhaps with a measure of relief?) to the practical application — how we should live. This is a pattern Paul follows in many of his epistles. This article is an exposition of Romans 12:1-2. It shows the grounds for Christian commitment; its demand, renewal, and its goal. 

This article is an exposition of Romans 8:1-4. It shows that the assurance of the believer rests in knowing that in Christ there is no condemnation for the believer.

This article is an exposition of Romans 8:31-39. It shows that the Christian assurance of victory is found in seeing the adequacy of God. 

This article is an exposition of Romans 7:14-25. This is a difficult passage to under­stand; in the past it has stretched some of the greatest minds. It’s a much disputed passage, with different interpretations. The problem surrounds the identity of the wretched man (v. 24). Who is he? 

This article is an exposition of Romans 8:5-14. It shows how the Holy Spirit works to bring change through new life and how He sustains new life in the believer. 

This article is an exposition of Romans 8:31-32. It shows that the assurance we have that God is for us is found in the demonstration of His love in giving us His Son. 

This article is an exposition of Romans 8:14-17. It shows the role of the Holy Spirit in our adoption. 

This article is an exposition of Romans 9. It shows how God’s purpose is fulfilled with election. 

Does it matter how we bury our dead? This article shows that the issue of cremation is a recent development for Christians. The practice in the OT has been that of burial, Jesus was also buried and 1 Corinthians 15 assumes burial. So it matters.

This is a psalm used by the pilgrims as they were ‘going up’ to Jerusalem. It’s a meditation on ‘Jerusalem’ — which was a very im­portant place for the ancient pil­grims. It was the centre of Israel’s life: it was where they went up to give thanks to the Lord; it was where judgements were made and where justice was dispensed; it was where the annual festivals were observed; it was where God had made a home — in his holy Temple. This article is an exposition of Psalm 122. 

This is the best known psalm of the songs of ascents — which the pil­grims probably sang as they made their way over the rough tracks leading up to Jerusalem to attend the great annual feasts. These words have over the years brought much comfort and help to believers in time of need. It’s often called ‘the travellers psalm’ or ‘the pilgrim’s psalm’. This article is an exposition of Psalm 121. 

This psalm is a song of thanksgiving to God, ac­knowledging what He has done. He has wrought great and miracu­lous deliverances not only for David, but also for the nation of Israel. As a result he exhorts us to, ‘Praise the LORD, who has not let us be torn by their teeth’ This article is an exposition of Psalm 124. 

This is a psalm sung by the pilgrims on their journey up to Jeru­salem. As they did so it didn’t es­cape their attention that the city was surrounded by mountains. Jerusalem was strategically situated. Derek Kidner paints the picture for us, ‘The hills and the holy city, much in view and much in mind to the pilgrims, make their presence felt again; and once more the thoughts they arouse are searching and fundamental, piercing to the realities behind these impressive sights’. This article is an exposition of Psalm 125. 

This is a song about the pil­grims as they ascended to Jerusa­lem for worship. Each of these psalms reminds us that we too are pilgrims, that ‘this world is not our home’. We too are marching to­ward Zion. We too, like the psalm­ist, may also experience the pain of this world’s contempt. This article is an exposition of Psalm 123. 

Self-harm is a way of expressing and dealing with deep distress and emotional pain. This article shows how this practice can be perpetuated by a materialistic culture, and how healing can be found in knowing and expressing God’s love. 

How should you give? This article gives you ten principles that should govern Christian giving and tithing. 

This article is an exposition of Matthew 7:7-8 and shows how prayer is done with confidence and assurance. Praying to the true God with humility in the right way; and submitting under God’s will. 

What is one thing that brings you to wonder? This article shows that the greatest wonder is that you are called a child of God. By looking at Christ who is the Son of God, the truth of adoption is clarified and shows the nature of adoption and its benefits. 

What is the relationship between Christ and the church? This article shows that Christ chose, protects, and gathers His church. The church on the other hand exists for Christ. Therefore being a member means being known by Christ, belonging to Him and being one in Him. 

How can you find God’s guidance? It can happen by knowing God’s will through His Word, by praying, and fighting pride with a humble heart. In this way a child of God can have assurance for God’s guidance. 

In relation to the second commandment, this article discusses the use of pictures of Jesus, the value of artistic visual portrayals of God, role of emotions in worship and the essence of true worship.

Christians know that they cannot keep the law perfectly. However they live in obedience to God’s law. This is so because they have a desire to obey God.

To love in truth starts by loving the truth revealed in God’s Word. It follows the example of love as expressed by God in Christ, and it is manifested in acts of love. 

This article explains what it means for a Christian is anointed to be a prophet, priest and king. The basis of this anointing is union with Christ. Implications for the Christian life are drawn. 

Knowing who you pray to; who you pray with; and the state of your heart in prayer is essential for true prayer. 

Hatred and murder are forbidden in the sixth commandment because murder is a sin against God. But is there a place for righteous hatred and lawful killing? 

Theft and greed are forbidden in the eighth commandment. The fact that God owns everything makes theft an insult to God. However, being content is the key to keeping this commandment. 

The fifth commandment addresses the use of authority between parents and children, government and citizens, elders and church members, teachers and pupils, and employer and employee. This article shows the limit of this authority and its origin.

Christ's resurrection and the celebration of salvation is the cause for the changing of the Sabbath day to the Lord’s Day. This article shows that we honour the fourth commandment by going to church and celebrating salvation with God’s people. 

Lying is of the devil. From the ninth commandment this article shows why. It shows how Christians should use their words by loving the truth. 

The tenth commandment is inward in its nature. It deals with our desires. It shows that coveting and idolatry are friends. It calls for a heart that desires to please God. 

Honouring God’s Name implies that one must recognize that God is not like other gods. It is a call for Christians to live as God commands. It is to acknowledge that God recognizes Himself with His people. This is what the third commandment reveals. 

Christ ascended to heaven, yet he is still present with us. He ascended to be our intercessor, and to prepare a place for us. His ascension should make His church heavenly minded. 

Why did Christ have to die? This article shows that the death of Jesus Christ was real, so that those who believe in Him, will not die.

Many times through church history the humanity of Jesus Christ was denied and is still being denied. This article shows that believing in Christ means believing that he is a human Saviour. He chose this for our salvation. It shows how the incarnation relates to the celebration of the Lord’s Supper. 

Christ reigns. This article shows the meaning of this statement by pointing at the difference between Christ's general control of the world and His specific control of the church. It shows that Christ exercises his sovereignty for the sake of the church and for her comfort. 

Was Christ raised from the dead? Oh YES! As a result of Christ’s resurrection the believer has past, present and future benefits. Let this article show you how. 

Christ will surely return. This article shows that His return will be for judgement. However, for the believer his return to judge should be a source of comfort not despair. 

Jesus Christ suffered throughout His life. This article shows that Christ's suffering was comprehensive, progressive, legal and cursed. However His suffering was a life giving suffering.

What is eternal life? This article shows that the answer can only be given by God. It shows what happens when we die – separation of spirit and body. What will happen when Christ returns – spirit and body reunited and enjoying eternal life with God for those who believe in Christ. This is a great comfort. 

Without the Holy Spirit the Christian life is not possible. By looking at the person of the Spirit and His work with focus on the help He gives, this article shows why this is the case. 

This article is an exposition of 1 Samuel 14:1-22 and 1 Samuel 7:2-12. It shows how God cares for His covenant people, but also how the choices of God’s covenant people should be for His glory. Read on…

Family, church and state are three institutions which are essential for the life of society. If these are viewed as human invention the society will collapse. If viewed as divine institutions society will flourish. This article explains what it means that these institutions are divine institutions in terms of their authority, responsibility and privilege. 

What is the foundation and the maintenance of the Christian faith? If you were to ask John Calvin he would say two things – knowing the true way to worship God and true knowledge of the source of our salvation. These two should be guarded by church government and sacraments, there are key to the reformation. 

What causes churches to go liberal? This article gives four reasons: the celebrity pastor, radical pastor, long term culture and also by compromise. Orthodoxy can be guarded and liberalism avoided by guarding the doctrine, personal integrity, keeping the confession. Let the article explain…

The apostle Paul now applies this radical new way of living to our lives together in the church. Paul re­minds us of the importance of using our minds in the church. We are not to leave our minds outside the church door. The head, as Tozer reminds us, is not just a place to hang a hat on! As members of the church then, how are we to think — and behave? This article is an exposition of Romans 12:3-8. It shows how Christians must think about themselves and the church. 

‘No passage is more diffi­cult for a modern mind to understand, and no passage of the NT has had such an influence on theology as this.’ You will need to put your thinking caps on; you will need to ‘gird up the loins of your mind.’ If you snooze — you lose. This passage could seriously enhance your understanding. It could change your life. It could alter the way you see yourself as a Christian and change your whole outlook.

Paul is writing to Christians; to people who have received mercy from God (Romans 12:1). Don’t think for a moment that by doing these instructions you are working for your salvation. No! Rather, if you obey these instructions you are work­ing out your salvation. It’s often been said that while we are saved by faith alone — this is by a faith that is not alone. These instructions are marks of the ‘new life’ in all who have been born again. This article gives the essentials of biblical love. 

Why should you not be ashamed of the gospel? In this exposition of Romans 1:14-17] it shows that the gospel is, the power of God, about salvation, for everyone, about the righteousness and received by faith. 

Paul has introduced us to the doctrine of justification by faith in chapter 3 of Romans. This may have been new to some people — it may even be new to you? People are often a little skeptical and wary of new ideas. That’s why Paul in Romans 4 takes up the case of Abraham (and to a lesser ex­tent David). These men were two giants of the Old Testament and superheroes of the Jews. The Jews all agreed there was none quite like Abraham or David. How were they made right with God?

The pagan, as well as the decent, upright, respectable, moral Gentile but also the religious self-righteous Jew are all found guilty. Read this exposition of Romans 2:17-29. 

This article is an exposition of Romans 13:1-7. It shows the attitude Christians are to have towards the government by recognising its authority, responsibility and by fulfilling their duty towards the government. 

The wrath of God is real. God has reason to express His wrath. God is righteous in expressing His wrath. God has revealed His wrath. This is what this article shows from Romans 1:18-32.

Paul says everyone needs this righteousness. The unbelieving Gentile needs it (1:18-32). The morally respect­able needs it (2:1-16). The religious, self righteous Jew needs it; as do Pat the Presbyterian; Arnold the Anglican; Billy the Baptist; Connie the Catholic and Uel the Uniting (2:17-29)! All of us — no matter who we are — need this righteousness from God. This article is an exposition of Romans 3:1-20. 

This article is an exposition of Romans 7:1-13. It shows how the law functioned to reveal sin and to point us to God. 

The scene is a courtroom. The judge has just delivered His ver­dict. The accused is found ‘GUILTY’. The charge is that he has broken every law in the book!  The Judge proceeds to make an unprece­dented announcement. He states, ‘But now, a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known...’ (v.21). There’s a gasp in the chamber. Everyone is stunned. Gobsmacked! Flabbergasted! Can a guilty man now be set free? Can a guilty man be right with God? This article is an exposition of Romans 3:21-31. 

This article is an exposition of Romans 5:1-11. It shows the results of justification for the believer. The Christian has hope in God, access to God, assurance of faith and confidence to face the judgement.

This article is an exposition of Romans 6:15-23. It shows that there are two ways to live. Two masters to serve. Two rewards to receive. 

The apostle has been telling us in these opening chapters of Romans that we need to get right with God because ‘there is none righteous, not even one.’ He tells us how God has devised a way by which guilty unrighteous sinners might be made right with God. This article is an exposition of Romans 6:1-14 which shows that as a result of our union with Christ, the believer has died to sin. 

This article is based on Romans 1:1-13 and gives three reasons why every Christian should read the book of Romans. It is because of who Paul is — he is an authentic Christian leader, because of what Paul believes — he is an ortho­dox Christian believer and because of why Paul writes — he is a caring Christian missionary.

The doctrine of the Trinity is essential for every Christian. It is important because this is who God is. Without it we cannot understand how God works in our lives. This article shows how the Triune God is involved in our salvation. 

You can’t choose your family, but you can choose your friends. Friendship is a bond of fellowship. One thing is clear for a Christian, he cannot be a friend to a man given to sin. Who is this man? Proverbs 22:24-25 explains.

What should you do if your Christian brother sins against you? Matthew 18:15-35 shows how knowing God’s forgiveness generates a forgiving heart and the practical implications of this. Read on…

Since God cannot be pictured, making an image of God is an insult to Him and therefore, images portray a false god. God forbids making images of Him in the second commandment.

Relativism and syncretism cannot be the attitude Christian take towards other religions. Christians are required to show intolerance in their attitudes towards other religion. This is  because there is only one way to salvation. Let this article show you why, read on…

When should you just shut up and when should you speak? From Proverbs 11:12 this article shows how words can be used in a biblical way, and how speaking gives a picture of who you are. 

Pride breeds strife. However, from Proverbs 13:10 we are shown that seeking advice from God’s people is the way to fight against fighting. Read on…

What distinguishes Christian faith? This article is from Hebrews 11:1 which shows the conviction of the Christian faith, its focus and its assurance as the distinguishing factors of a true faith. 

Structuring a sermon and preaching is crucial for the preacher and listener. This article shows important things to consider for preaching: the theme, focus of the text, centrality of Christ, the place of illustrations, references, application and the conclusion.

This article shows how men’s fellowship can play a role in developing men for church leadership.

From Deuteronomy 30, this article shows that covenant obedience is rooted in loving, trusting and obeying God. This obedience is only possible through the redemptive work of Christ. 

God does not help those who help themselves. Original sin means that man is born with a sinful nature and a natural bias to sin. Man cannot please God in anything he does. It is only God in Christ who can make man believe in Him and please Him.

The act of justification means God declares that the sinner has a new status of righteousness before Him. This righteousness rests in the work of Christ with no single contribution from the sinner. Let the article explain…

The Psalms can be a great means to shape the Christian life and experience. This article shows how Psalms can be used to shape the believer’s prayer and his praise to God. 

The Psalms reveal God and His character. They paint a true picture of people. Christ is pictured in His person and work in the Psalms. They cover the spiritual experience of the pilgrim believers. Therefore Psalm singing should characterize God’s church, for God gave His church this song book for worship. 

How can God be just and yet save sinners? The answer is found in the doctrine of justification. This article gives the meaning of justification, the basis of justification being the righteousness of Christ, and the role of faith and works.