Tag Archives: Bible study

Paul Applies his Story

Posted on May 2, 2025 by Don Merritt

You foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? Before your very eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed as crucified. I would like to learn just one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by believing what you heard? … Continue reading →

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Paul and Peter

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Don Merritt

 When Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. For before certain men came from James, he used to eat with the Gentiles. But when they arrived, he began to draw back and separate himself from the Gentiles … Continue reading →

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Man’s Rules

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Don Merritt

Since you died with Christ to the elemental spiritual forces of this world, why, as though you still belonged to the world, do you submit to its rules: “Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!”? These rules, which … Continue reading →

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Paul’s Story Continues

Posted on April 30, 2025 by Don Merritt

Then after fourteen years, I went up again to Jerusalem, this time with Barnabas. I took Titus along also. I went in response to a revelation and, meeting privately with those esteemed as leaders, I presented to them the gospel that I preach … Continue reading →

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Paul Shares His Story

Posted on April 29, 2025 by Don Merritt

Galatians 1:11-24 Here in the second part of Galatians 1, Paul shares his personal story, and in doing so, I see a twofold purpose. First, he wants to make it clear to the Galatians that he is a reliable teacher; … Continue reading →

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Astonishment!

Posted on April 28, 2025 by Don Merritt

Paul, an apostle—sent not from men nor by a man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead— and all the brothers and sisters with me, To the churches in Galatia: Grace and peace to you from God … Continue reading →

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The Beatitudes and Forgiveness, part 2

Posted on April 25, 2025 by Don Merritt

5:8       Blessed are the pure in heart,    for they will see God. The pure in heart are people who have no guile; they are innocent and do not carry with them intrigue and manipulative desires to control other people. Now imagine … Continue reading →

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Final Thoughts on James

Posted on April 24, 2025 by Don Merritt

Old Testament Israel lived under the Law of Moses, very much a transactional system of law, violations, punishments, and atonement. The great priority of that system was found in avoiding violations to curry God’s favor. Sacrifices were carried out continually … Continue reading →

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Summing Up

Posted on April 23, 2025 by Don Merritt

There are some misconceptions surrounding this book, and maybe that is why many modern-day teachers avoid it. Can Jesus be found in James? Well, let’s see… didn’t I write a “Bonus Post” on its connection with the Sermon on the Mount? … Continue reading →

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The Beatitudes and Forgiveness, part 1

Posted on April 23, 2025 by Don Merritt

Matthew 5:3-12 I have no doubt that you are familiar with this text; it is one of the most often quoted in Scripture. No doubt you’ve studied it in studies, classes and sermons many times, but have you ever considered … Continue reading →

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