Josh Benner

Tag: Christian living

  • The lost art of lament

    Lament is a topic that is often overlooked in American churches (especially in predominately caucasian churches). Lament is very common in the Bible, especially in the Old Testament. We see it as a theme throughout the prophetic books, and the Bible has more books on prophecy than in any other genre. We see it in…

  • You can’t love God if you don’t love people

    Originally published December 13, 2016 James says If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “you shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing well” (James 2:8).  points Royal Law is an interesting phrase. That’s the only time it’s used in the entire Bible. James follows up mentioning this royal law…

  • Jesus and the Last Supper – more than just a meal

    Originally published April 13, 2017 As part of Holy Week, Maundy Thursday is recognized this evening. It was the night in which Jesus ate the Last Supper with his disciples. The time in which Jesus died corresponded with the Jewish holiday of Passover. And the Last Supper was the first night of Passover. An annual…

  • A sinner’s guide to repentance

    Originally published March 22, 2017 Repentance is sincere remorse or regret for an action. Theologically, repentance is associated with the idea of turning away from sin and turning to God. James 4:7-10 gives what’s almost like a “how to” guide for repentance. It’s not exhaustive, but he says five things that are important to repentance. 1. Repentance involve…

  • Glimpses of the work of God in the world

    Jesus taught: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” With the promises of the Lord, there’s a sense of the present fulfillment of the promise, but it points to a later and greater fulfillment in heaven. So for the present day, we do get a sense of the Lord, we are…