Christmas Message 2024 | The Paradox Of Christmas (Video)

As of this writing, another year is rapidly coming to a close. We at The Coffeehouse Bible Ministry have much to be thankful for. It has been our joy and privilege to serve Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ; helping spread His message to all.

The Christmas season heralds the birth of Jesus Christ and the promise of our salvation. It also signals the time for our annual holiday break. This provides everyone with a well-deserved pause for travel, family gatherings, and community service.

But no matter the purpose, our main focus is, first and foremost, ever fixed on Jesus Christ. It is only by His mercy and grace that this blog has existed for so many years. We take no credit for what we freely love to do in His Name. To Him, go all the praise and glory!

© Igniter Media

The Very First Christmas Day

By Brenda Thompson Davis

"The Very First Christmas Day" is an original Christmas story poem that tells of the Savior's birth in Bethlehem.

His parents had no money, although He was a King—

An angel came to Joseph one night as he dreamed.

"Don't be afraid to marry her, this child is God's own Son,"

And with these words from God's messenger, their journey had begun.

They traveled to the city, their taxes to be paid—

But when Christ was born they found no place for the baby to be laid.

So they wrapped Him up and used a lowly manger for His bed,

With nothing else but straw to place beneath the Christ-child's head.

The shepherds came to worship Him, the wise men traveled too—

Led by a star up in the sky, they found the baby new.

They gave him gifts so wondrous, their incense, myrrh, and gold,

Thus completes the greatest story of a birth 'twas ever told.

He was just a tiny baby, born in a stable far away—

They had no reservations, and nowhere else to stay.

But His birth was so majestic, in a simple sort of way,

A baby born in Bethlehem on a very special day.

It was the Savior born in Bethlehem, on the very first Christmas Day.

_______________

As we look ahead with great anticipation to 2025, we thank you for your audience in 2024. I pray that we have provided some inspiration, comfort, and education, to help you along in your Christian journey. 

Our ministry blog will return on January 8, 2025. In the meantime, our blog archives are always available for use as His Spirit moves you. In closing, on behalf of The Coffeehouse Bible Ministry we wish you a safe, joyous, and Spirit-filled holiday!

"He said to them, 'Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.'"  - Mark 16:15

With love, peace, and happiness,

~Eve

Whistle-Stop Scripture Study: 1 John 2

"Whatever a person may be like, we must still love them because we love God."  - John Calvin (1509-1564)

I am so happy that you have joined us for our study of  The First Epistle of John or 1 John. When we gathered together last time, we examined 1 John 1, the first chapter of the epistle.

This time around we will fix our attention on the second chapter or 1 John 2. As is the case in our current day, the people then also existed in a world filled with distractions and erroneous doctrine. 

The key points the apostle John stresses here in this chapter are to remain focused on Jesus Christ, be steadfast in His truth, and to demonstrate steady growth in spiritual development.

What's more, 1 John 2 serves as a manual for believers everywhere, calling attention to our special relationship with God; specifically, how we emulate this in our conduct and love for others.

Before we begin our new study, let's briefly revisit the questions given at the end of 1 John 1. The answers provided are not meant to be regarded as exact, nor as the final word. They are provided only as a comparison and self-evaluation tool.

Compare your answers below*:

#1. The two main points of this chapter are the Prologue: The Word of Life; and Fellowship with God.

#2. They are similar in that both commence with a prologue (introduction) that reference the Word who became flesh.

#3. The apostle John describes the pre-incarnation of Jesus as: "that which was from the beginning."

#4. John's first-hand evidence concerning the Word is that: "He has heard, seen with his eyes, handled with hands."

#5. Regarding 1 John 1, John declares "eternal life." He wants to share "fellowship with the Father." And he writes "that our joy may be full."

#6. The message John heard which he wants to communicate to us is "that God is light and in Him there is no darkness at all."

#7. Declaring our fellowship with God, but continuing to walk in darkness, demonstrates that we are "liars who do not practice the truth."

#8. Walking together in the light with God is beneficial to us in that we enjoy "cleansing of all sin by the blood of Jesus Christ."

# 9. The result of saying we have no sin is "we deceive ourselves, portray God as a liar, and reveal that His love and truth are not in us."

#10. In order to be forgiven of sin and be right with God, we must "confess our sins."

*verses for the questions were provided in the previous lesson.

In our current study, as you read through 1 John 2 you will find that we have an Advocate (helper, adviser, or counselor) who is also the propitiation (atoning sacrifice) for our sins. 

In order to truly appreciate Him, we must obey His commandments (vv. 1-6), and love each other (vv. 7-11). Giving an account of the spiritual state of his original readers (vv. 12-14), John warns against loving the world and being mislead by antichrists (vv. 15-23); and allowing truth to dwell in them, and they in Jesus Christ (vv. 24-29).

Objectives of this lesson: 

After completing this lesson (includes reading the selection), you should be familiar with:

• The true measure of knowing Jesus Christ as both our Advocate, and propitiation.
• Things in this world we cannot allow ourselves to become infatuated with.
• How to identify antichrists in John's writings.

Now let us pray before we begin: "Dear Lord, send the grace of your Holy Spirit to strengthen me that I may learn well the subject I am about to study. Amen."

The questions below are provided to help you get the most out of the chapter study. The numbers enclosed in parentheses are the verse numbers relating to that particular question. 

I would encourage you to read the chapter thoroughly as many times as needed. Take your time answering the questions, making sure you understand each one before moving on. 

Reading Questions:

1. What are the main points of 1 John 2? (Hint: there are several) - (vv. 1-6); (vv. 7-11); (vv. 12-14); (vv. 15-23); (vv. 24-29).
2. How can Jesus help us when we have sinned?. - (vv. 1-2)
3. Name two proofs showing that we know Jesus, and live in a close relationship with Him - (vv. 3-6)
4. Name one commandment that is both "old" and "new."  - (vv. 7-11)
5. Make a list of the three groups of people of whom John describes their spiritual state in (vv. 12-14). 
6. John lists three worldly things which we should not love. What are they? - (vv. 15-17)
7. What does John tell us about antichrist in (vv. 18-23)?
8. How can we be certain that we will abide (dwell, endure) in both the Son, and the Father? - (vv. 24-29)

This now completes our study of 1 John 2. I've intentionally made these studies concise in order to accommodate most busy daily schedules. Even so, they contain enough content to allow for actual learning to take place.

I invite you to our next study of 1 John 3. Until then, I hope the "whistle-stop" for Scripture study will become an established point of departure in your life soon!

Thank you for joining me, and I look forward to seeing you again!

Scripture: Romans 3:25; 1 Peter 3:18; Hebrews 5:9; John 13:34; 1 Corinthians 13:13 

Prayer: "Dear Lord, I give thanks to the You, God of heaven, for Your steadfast love endures forever.. Amen"  

May God richly bless you always,

Leia

Walking By Faith | At the Brink of an Unknown Future...

"Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God."  - Corrie Ten Boom

As yet another year rapidly draws to a close, one can't help but take pause and wonder what the impending new year will bring. All of us can relate to successes or failures this past year that bring on a flood of mixed feelings.

The old year has now become familiar to us, which can cause us to feel apprehensive about stepping into a new one. There's nothing strange or abnormal about that. It's called: fear of the unknown. This fear of the unknown is common to all. 

In the course of normal, everyday life we encounter many unforeseen incidents. But these types of situations are not exclusive to "physical" living. We can also face "spiritual" challenges that test our faith in God.

A fear of the unknown can be problematic and lead to unsureness for the believer. What is the root of our hesitation? It's when we are put upon to do something by God that isn't within our spiritual comfort-zone.

We've heard it called by other expressions, such as: trepidation, anxiety, dread, panic, and qualms. The only bona fide remedy for this is having a trusting faith in God, and believing that he always has our best interest in mind. 

American theologian James Montgomery Boice had this to say about fear of the unknown: "We are not to be anxious about the unknown future or to fret about it. We are to live in a moment-by-moment dependence upon God."

This means that having an unrestrained and adventurous spirit is essential when it comes to Him. Part of our growing into Christian maturity involves stepping out into the dark unknown from time to time. 

The phrase "nothing ventured, nothing gained" should be part of our regular guiding principles. Risks must be taken from time to time, if the believer is to ever accomplish anything of value to his or her walk in faith.

We are never truly alone on our journey with Jesus Christ. In fact, it is by His demand that we are given these pitfalls and troubles that must be traversed; relying on nothing more than our faith and trust in Him.

The Creator of the Universe is aware of our frailties and flaws. The fear of the unknown applies only to humanity. He would never intentionally expose any of his beloved creatures to risk without a Supreme intention in mind. 

Billy Graham said, "God nowhere promises happiness is to be a goal in life. It’s not a goal. Our goal is to obey God. Our goal is to do the will of God. Our goal is to be a disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ."

It's natural for us to hold back on the unfamiliar. However, when Jesus presents us with an opportunity for a new undertaking, or offering, we must grab hold of it, take that leap of faith, and move ever onward in His name. 

Scripture: Isaiah 41:10; Philippians 4:6-7; Romans 8:38-39; Proverbs 3:5; 2 Timothy 1:7

Prayer: “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.”  - Psalm 100:4

Sincerely with the Grace of God,

Sloane

The Coming of the Divine and Human with Love

“The central miracle asserted by Christians is the incarnation. They say that God became man.”  - C. S. Lewis

At this time of year, it is easy to forget the actual purpose of the newborn so lovingly attended to by his parents on that special night in what was basically a storage enclosure for animals.

His arrival shouldn't have been a surprise since it had been part of Old Testament prophecy (Isaiah 7:14;  Isaiah 9:6; Micah 5:2). Sadly, many today want to see big, bold, event-packed happenings, not the low-key birth of another child into poverty (2 Corinthians 8:9).

Jesus' earthly parents had been summoned to the small town of Bethlehem (Bethlehem Ephrathah) to participate in a census of the whole Roman region when it became time for his birth. 

However, due to the assembled multitude there, they were left with no choice but to find accommodations where they could. Jesus' humble entry into this world would serve him well as he grew into adulthood (Philippians 2:7). 

Somewhere, hidden among the din and bustle, is the story of God becoming human in the Person of Jesus Christ. This is what we should be honoring and celebrating, not the giving and receiving of inconsequential, soon-forgotten gifts.

Jesus came to us bearing only one gift, and that gift was "love." The act of love cannot be found or purchased in an exclusive store, boutique; nor even online at any price. God demonstrated this by a simple act:

"Because God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him." (John 3:16-17)

The genuine meaning of Christmas does not come with a price tag. That has already been paid for by the "love" of God through his Son, Jesus Christ. May you keep this faithful impression in your hearts and minds this season, and always.

Scripture: John 1:14; John 15:13; Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 5:8; 1 John 4:9

Prayer: "How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings."  - Psalm 36:7

May God be with you,

Sophie

Weekend Message: Move Back! | God is On the Move | Part 4 (Conclusion) | Beth Moore

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

As always, it's my pleasure to bring you quality presentations from some of the best Christian teachers in the world! Each video presentation can vary, but whatever the topic, you can be certain that it will be informative and Bible-based.

This week, we conclude this study series featuring Bible teacher, author, and speaker Beth Moore.

In this final video presentation, Beth wraps things up by introducing the final three points of her lesson presentation. Let's take a look at what has been discussed thus far. The first four were:

#1. MOVE

#2. MOVE ON

#3. MOVE FORWARD

#4. MOVE BACK

Now, the last three will be introduced in this lesson. They are:

#5. MOVE at the Speed of Light, or Flee!

#6. MOVE Some Mountains

#7. MOVE out of Shame and Shadows

© Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

Key Scriptures used: John 21:15-22, 2 Thessalonians 3:1-3, Matthew 17:14-20 

I hope that you've enjoyed viewing, and learning from, this wonderful series of teachings from Beth Moore as much as I have. Join us here again when we present more teachings from God-inspired teachers.

Until then, keep reading your Bibles, "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."  - Colossians 3:17

May God bless you always,

~Eve

Whistle-Stop Scripture Study: 1 John 1

"Christians in consort are an abridgement of heaven, shining like a firmament of bright stars… Surely, of all fellowships, this is the only good fellowship. Next to communion with God, there is no communion like the communion of saints."  - George Swinnock (1627-1673)

In our first meeting, I introduced the book of The First Epistle of John or 1 John, which is accepted as an Apostolic Letter. This epistle or letter will be the topic of our study.

Before we begin our study of 1 John 1, I think it would be helpful to briefly run over some of the important points of this epistle. 

• It was written to stand up to false teachings having to do with the denial of the incarnate Jesus.
• This Gnostic view of matter (the physical) as being evil led to two responses, asceticism (strictness, self-denial) or licentiousness (the lacking of any legal or moral restraints).
• John  unmistakably writes the epistles to provide the demonstrable tests of a true Christian.
• These tests also opposed the licentious (sinful) Gnostic path to Christianity.

First things first, let us pray: "Dear Lord, send the grace of your Holy Spirit to strengthen me that I may learn well the subject I am about to study. Amen."

When you read 1 John, you will notice the apostle John starts his first epistle in the same fashion as his gospel; that is, with a prologue (introduction) on the subject of the Word of Life (Jesus Christ) who resided in the flesh among us. He also enabled the possibility for us to have fellowship with the Father (vv. 1-4).

Furthermore, fellowship with God is retained when we walk in the light and admit our sins. This, so that we might reap the benefits of knowing Jesus, and the perpetual cleansing by the way of His blood (vv. 5-10).

Objectives: 

After completing this lesson (reading the selection), the reader should be familiar with:

• The witness of John (or sharing what he has seen) concerning the Word of Life.
• The character and quality of the evidence for faith in Jesus.
• The foundation of our fellowship with God.

I have included some questions below to help you get the most out of your reading/study of the chapter. The numbers enclosed in parentheses are the verse numbers relating to that particular question. I would encourage you to read the chapter thoroughly at least once; and more as needed. Then take your time answering the questions, making sure you understand each before continuing on. 

Reading Questions:

1. What are the main points of 1 John? (Hint: there are two) - (vv. 1-4); (vv. 5-10)
2. Briefly describe the similarities between the beginning of this epistle and John's gospel. - (vv. 1-4); (John 1:1-14)
3. What is John's description of the pre-incarnation of Jesus? - (v.1)
4. What first-hand evidence does John give concerning the Word? - (v. 1)
5. Pertaining to 1 John 1, what does John declare here? What does he want to share with the readers? What is his motivation for writing 1 John 1? - (vv. 2-4)
6. What message has John heard that he now communicates to us? - (v. 5)
7. If we proclaim to have fellowship with God but walk in darkness, what does that make us? - (v. 6)
8. What benefit do we reap by walking together in the light with God? - (v. 7)
9. What is the result of saying we have no sin? - (vv. 8, 10)
10. In order to be forgiven of sin and cleansed of all unrighteousness (not having a right standing with God), what is required of us? - (v. 9)

This now completes our study of 1 John 1. I've intentionally made these studies concise in order to accommodate most busy daily schedules. Even so, they will have just enough content to allow for actual learning to take place.

I invite you to join me for our next study which will take us through 1 John 2. Until then, I hope the "whistle-stop" for Scripture study will become an established point of departure in your life soon!

Thank you for joining me, and I look forward to seeing you again!

Scripture: Acts 2:44; Romans 1:12; Ephesians 5:30; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Hebrews 10:24-25; 

Prayer: "Dear Lord, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind with other believers. Amen"  - 

May God richly bless you always,

Leia

What Is Advent?

What Is Advent?

Our ministry receives many inquiries about Advent. This tells us that not everyone is familiar with Advent and the reason it is celebrated/observed. That being the case, we thought it might be helpful to share a little information about it here with all of you.

Advent is considered a season within the Christian calendar, representing a period of preparation and anticipation building towards Christmas, instead of a single holiday; it includes the four Sundays before Christmas Day. 

The meaning of the word "Advent" originates from trhe Latin "adventus," meaning "coming," in respect to the coming of Jesus Christ. During Advent, Christians traditionally meditate, look prayerfully to the birth of Jesus, and prepare their hearts for the celebration of Christmas. 

Although the Bible doesn't mention anything about observing Advent, this tradition has existed within the global Christian church for hundreds of years. In fact, it's nearly as old as the church itself, with the earliest references to the tradition happening as early as 380 AD at the Council of Saragossa. 

© Concordia Publishing House

The season of Advent lasts four weeks, commencing with the fourth Sunday before Christmas. During this time, believers reflect on a main theme for each of the four weeks leading up to Christmas Eve: hope, peace, joy, and love. It is tradition in many churches to light a candle on a wreath for each Sunday of Advent; denoting one of the themes.

Regarding "who" observes/celebrates Advent, the Bible Project offers this additional information, "People from Protestant, Roman Catholic, Orthodox, and other Christian traditions celebrate Advent, though the specific practices may vary from community to community. Additionally, some people celebrate Advent without the focus on Jesus' arrival, seeing the tradition as a fun way to countdown to Christmas."

Setting aside all else, our hearts and minds should be centered on one thing, and one thing only; the birth of Jesus Christ.

The great 19th century preacher, Charles H. Spurgeon once said, "The birth of Jesus is the grandest light of history, the sun in the heavens of all time. It is the pole-star of human destiny, the hinge of chronology, the meeting-place of the waters of the past and the future."

May all your days be blessed in His Name,

The Coffeehouse Bible Ministry