Jonathan Shradar

Acting on the recommendation of an online friend I grabbed The World Next Door: A short guide to the Christian faith, and found the little book to be a great primer on the Apostle’s Creed.  Written by a pastor and professor both currently in Australia, the accessible book has some cultural references that might be unfamiliar to and American reader but not so much so that it hurts the effort.  Geared for those looking to understand Christianity more, the book begins with an account of demons and lands with forgiveness and resurrection, Christ’s and yours. Of course it is only yours if you believe in him. So the authors, and I, hope you will believe. Originally looking for a book to make available to neighbors in SoCal I don’t think it matches our needs but is still a quality, easy-to-read guide to the Apostle’s Creed.  Find a copy here. 

Luke recounts the temption of Jesus in chapter four of his Gospel. Jesus’ response to the devil’s temptation to worship him was to quote Deuteronomy 6:13. He hit back with the Word. “And Jesus answered him, “It is written, “‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only shall you serve.’” All of the kingdoms of the world before him. That’s what he came to rule over anyway right? But he doesn’t budge. Yahweh only. The Father only.  We too still live under this reality. Worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.  The temptation is also a current reality for us. Everyday we face the lure of surrendering worship to lesser things to get ahead. To identities that don’t match truth. To principalities that promise to finally define you. To passions that are fleeting.  In Christ, you are not alone in facing it all. The Spirit is your helper that makes you to stand firm. With his help don’t bow down to the bluster of our day. Worship the Lord alone. Serve only him. It is where