Why Did David's Son Have to Die?
When the Bible is hard to read: What do we do with the death of David’s son?
On Sunday, we stopped our study of 2 Samuel 12 at verse 15. That was intentional.
What happens next is too difficult and too important to tack onto the end of a sermon with a quick explanation. After Nathan confronts David over his sin with Bathsheba and Uriah, David finally confesses: “I have sinned against the LORD.” Nathan immediately responds, “The LORD also has put away your sin; you shall not die.” That’s grace.
Don't Just Know God's Promises: Cling to Them
What does it actually look like to cling to the promises of God?
We all know what it's like to cling to something. A child clings to a parent in a crowded place. A rock climber clings to a handhold hundreds of feet above the ground. In a storm, you instinctively grab whatever feels secure. But what does it mean to cling to God's promises?
Why Does God Seem So Harsh in the Old Testament?
Few stories in the Bible are as unsettling as 2 Samuel 6. King David is bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem when the oxen stumble. Uzzah instinctively reaches out to steady the Ark and is struck dead. If you're honest, your first reaction is probably the same as many readers (including mine) throughout history: "That seems harsh."
Why I'm Excited About Our New Series in 2 Samuel
If I had to describe our cultural moment in one word, it would be disappointment.
We've been disappointed by leaders who failed us. Disappointed by promises that were never kept. Disappointed by politics, institutions, churches, relationships, and even ourselves. We keep hoping that the next leader, the next success, the next season, or the next breakthrough will finally bring the peace and security we're looking for.
Are We Raising Kids Who Know How to Be Friends?
What if one of the greatest gifts you can give your child isn't another activity, lesson, or achievement...but the ability to build meaningful friendships?
Over the past two weeks at Port City Church we've talked about parenting and friendship. The more I've reflected on it, the more convinced I've become that the two are deeply connected.
In this week's blog, we explore what Jonathan Haidt's research on childhood play can teach us about friendship, discipleship, and raising kids who know how to love others well.
