Sardis was a city with a long history, dating back at least to the eighth century BC, and serving as the capital of the Lydian empire till it fell to Cyrus in 546BC. Later, after passing into Roman hands, it became the capital of the Lydian region. Situated in the Hermus River Valley, Sardis at … Continue reading A Missional Reading of the Letter to Sardis
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A Missional Reading of the Letter to Thyatira
The fourth letter is addressed to the church at Thyatira, a city of no great importance. Thyatira was not a political or religious center, nor was it of particular commercial importance. There were, of course, religious temples and Thyatira did participate in commerce, but neither marked Thyatira as in any way unique or of special … Continue reading A Missional Reading of the Letter to Thyatira
Book Review: Four Views of Eternal Security
I am a fan of the 'Four Views' series - the give a reader a quick glimpse into different approaches to thorny issues - theological, biblical, practical, etc. These books are not, nor are they intended to be, full treatments of the topics in question. Instead, they introduce the reader to various viewpoints which they … Continue reading Book Review: Four Views of Eternal Security
A Missional Reading of the Letter to the Church at Pergamum
In the letter to the church at Pergamum, several missionally related themes are repeated. As in the letter to the Smyrnan church, the theme of spiritual warfare is present – the church will be harassed by satanic forces as it strives to be faithful to its mission. Also, the importance of protecting the deposit of … Continue reading A Missional Reading of the Letter to the Church at Pergamum
A Missional Reading of the Letter to Smyrna
The second church addressed in Revelation is the church at Smyrna, a city a short distance north of Ephesus. Smyrna was a wealthy city, an important intellectual city, and a city well known for its beauty. It was a city, also, brimming with civic pride which stemmed not only from its wealth and beauty but … Continue reading A Missional Reading of the Letter to Smyrna
God Entranced 