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Philippians 2

Philippians 2 the Ryrie study Bible notes The Exhortation to Humility 1-5 The Epitome of Humility 8-11 The Exercise of Humility 12-18 The Examples of Humility 19-30 Satan fell through Pride. Isaiah 14:12-15 CSB [12] Shining morning star, c how you have fallen from the heavens! You destroyer of nations, you have been cut down to the ground. [13] You said to yourself, "I will ascend to the heavens; I will set up my throne above the stars of God. I will sit on the mount of the gods' assembly, in the remotest parts of the North. [14] I will ascend above the highest clouds; I will make myself like the Most High." [15] But you will be brought down to Sheol into the deepest regions of the Pit. … Proverbs 6:16-19 CSB [16] The LORD hates six things; in fact, seven are detestable to him: [17] arrogant eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, [18] a heart that plots wicked schemes, feet eager to run to evil, [19] a lying witness who gives false testimony, ...
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Noel Weeks by Todd Stanton

Editor's note:  Though Noel Weeks passed away in 2020, he continues to speak through his work in Reformata. After we shared his article on Judges last week, I preached on  Hebrews 13:7 : "Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith." To "remember" is more than an intellectual recall—it is to remember with gratitude and affection. Noel was a mentor, a friend, and a guiding voice in the Australian church. By remembering him, I sought to put this verse into practice. May reflecting on his life and work not only inspire you to read his writings but also lead you to give thanks to God for the gift he was to so many. The Psalter opens up its 150 psalms, not with a prayer, a praise, or a lament, but with wisdom. The very first word gives that away: " Blessed  . . . is the man". Studies have shown that  ʾašrê , the Hebrew word behind "blessed,"   is a word that come...
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Church Coups by Thom Rainer

Anatomy of a Church Coup by Thom S. Rainer February 21, 2021 There is nothing new under the sun, including church coups. The impetus behind this article is the greater frequency of the coups taking place. It is, I guess at least in part, yet another consequence of COVID. They have been around a long time; they are just more frequent now. For certain, no two coups are identical. Any type of examination or anatomy of a coup will always have exceptions and outliers. Our team at Church Answers has, however, seen patterns that are common to most coups. Here are some of the patterns: The target is the pastor. Whether perceived or real, those engaged in the coup think they can do a better job than the pastor. If the pastor does not go along with their "suggestions," the plan to remove him begins. The coup participants are usually church staff and lay leaders. The staff often report directly to the pastor. They are convinced the pastor is bad for the church, and that...
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