The Cost of Guilt

The story of Barabbas found in Luke 23:13–25 and Matthew 27:15–23 is a powerful reminder of the cost of guilt and the consequences of sin. When we consider the sacrifice that Jesus made on our behalf, it can lead us to a deeper understanding of the gravity of our own...

Guilty Yet Saved

Luke 23:13–25 and Matthew 27:15–23 tell the story of Barabbas, a notorious prisoner who was set to be executed, and the crowd’s choice to release him instead of Jesus. As we reflect on this passage, we can ask ourselves, “Who am I in this story?” Perhaps we see...

Love Offers Sacrificially

My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.— John 15:12–13 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice,...

Love Offers Forgiveness

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.—Luke 23:34 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.—...

Love Offers Encouragement

When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.— Acts...

Love Offers Presence

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.— Revelation 21:3 Keep your lives free from the love of money...