Carey Hardy
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The Messenger of God (2008)
Romans 1:1 In this introduction to Romans, Paul sets the stage by introducing himself. He lets his readers know Whom he serves, his apostolic credentials, and the gospel message he proclaims. Rather than drawing attention to himself, however, this gospel is presented as God-given and is the springboard for the rest of the letter. -
Snapshot of a Fool (Part 1)
Ecclesiastes 10:12-20 Solomon has spent some time sharing what the wise person looks like. But now he doesn’t shy away from discussing the negative side, of what not to do. He gives us a snapshot of a fool and how his folly is manifest in four ways. -
Living a Sensible Life (Part 2)
Ecclesiastes 10:3-11 Solomon makes the somewhat surprising statement that wisdom has the advantage of giving success, but it is not a guarantee of earthly success. Ultimately, we will be successful the way God measures success. He draws several conclusions to help us live wise and sensibly. -
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Living a Sensible Life (Part 1)
Ecclesiastes 10:1-11 We can’t just live by our senses or by what the majority says. We must “fly by the instruments.” Solomon gives us wisdom to live by so that our lives have substance and significance. -
Preparation for Ministry
Mark 1:9-13 Jesus, with His baptism, moves into His public ministry. Supernatural approval is demonstrated by an anointing from heaven by the Holy Spirit, and the Father’s audible satisfaction. Jesus, as Adam was, is tested. -
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The Surprising Nature of Providence
Ecclesiastes 9:11-18 The point has been made that we must enjoy life but with an objective view as to how life really is, that God is sovereign. Yet righteous and wise living is no guarantee of earthly success. So what is the payoff? We do what is right because it is right to do and it brings glory to God. -
Humble Beginnings
Mark 1:1-8 Mark opens his book with the gospel, or “good news.” He introduces John the Baptist as the herald of a new era or beginning in God’s working with man. Jesus is the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. -
The Fullness of Fellowship in Christ
Colossians 4:11-18 Epaphras was a big-hearted leader of a tiny house church in Colosse. This church had been overflowing with the joy of the fullness of Christ — but a desolating philosophy endangered to beguile them away from their fullness. Paul sums up his letter with a reminder that everything flows from the fact that Christ is the One who fills everything in every way — and that we, too, can know this fullness in our own hearts.