You are inDig Deeper·The Library
Subject
Jesus
182 pages · Back to library
Faith
6 pages- Post 124Bill Perkins
How Jesus Responds To Sincere Doubt
How Jesus Responds To Sincere Doubt "My Lord and my God!" (Jn 20.28) "Thomas? was not with them when Jesus came." (Jn 20.24) The room was alivewith the storyThomas missed. Hands movedas they retold it.Voices roseas each man addedhis…
Faith - Post 120Bill Perkins
Friday
Friday "Did not our hearts burn within us as He spoke to us on the road, as He opened the Scriptures to us?" (Lu 24:32) Where to Find Jesus "Did not our hearts burn within usas He spoke to us on the road,as He opened the Scriptures to us?"
Faith - Post 68Bill Perkins
Jesus May Be Delayed, But He's Never Late
Jesus May Be Delayed, But He's Never Late "Do not fear, only believe." (Mark 5:36) "Do not fear, only believe." Mark 5:36 The laughter that once filled his home-now silent.Each breath-thinner than a thread.Each moment-the last grain…
FaithLife of Jesus - Post 62Bill Perkins
The Fifth Most Important Question Jesus Asked
The Fifth Most Important Question Jesus Asked Jesus walks into a crowded courtyard in Jerusalem,near the Pool of Bethesda-a place where the sick, blind, and paralyzed gather,hoping for healing. One man has been there 38 years,lying on…
FaithLife of Jesus - Post 30Bill Perkins
Why Jesus Confused the Crowd on Purpose
Why Jesus Confused the Crowd on Purpose Scripture: "Simon Peter answered him, 'Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.'" -John 6:68 Jesus didn't always aim to be understood. Sometimes He said things that stirred questions-"Eat my flesh.…
Faith - Post 1Bill Perkins
Jesus Didn’t Always Know Everything
If Jesus is fully God, shouldn’t He have always known everything — even as a baby in the manger?
Faith
Jesus
176 pages- Post 190Bill Perkins
How to Be Jesus' Friend
Commentary "You are My friends if you do what I command you." (John 15:14) How to Be Jesus' Friend "You are My friendsif you do what I command you."John 15:14 Most people assumeeveryone who believes in Jesusis automatically His friend.
DiscipleshipScripture - Post 189Bill Perkins
How to Experience the Joy of Jesus
Devotional "If My words remain in you?" (Jn 15:7) How to Experience the Joy of Jesus "These things I have spoken to youso that My joy may be in you,and your joy may be full."- John 15:11 You may not know this about Jesus,but He gives…
GrowthScripture - Post 188Bill Perkins
What it Means to Glorify God
Commentary "By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples." (John 15:8) What it Means to Glorify God "By this My Father is glorified,that you bear much fruit,and so prove to be My…
GrowthScripture - Post 187Bill Perkins
The Kind of Prayer God Answers
Commentary "If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you." (John 15:7) The Kind of Prayer God Answers "If you abide in Me,and My words abide in you,ask whatever you wish,and it will…
GrowthScripturePrayer - Post 186Bill Perkins
How Jesus Lives in You
Devotional "If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you?" (John 15:7) How Jesus Lives in You "If you abide in Me,and My words abide in you?"John 15:7 In the verses before this,the movement flowed one way-you remain in Him,you remain…
GrowthScripture - Post 185Bill Perkins
How Often Should I Forgive Someone?
Commentary "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?" (Matthew 18:21) How Often Should I Forgive Someone? "Lord, how often shall my brothersin against me,and I forgive him?Up to seven…
ForgivenessScripture - Post 184Bill Perkins
How to Stand When Everything Around You Falls
Devotional "I have treasured Your word in my heart that I may not sin against You." (Ps 119:11) How to Stand When Everything Around You Falls "If you keep My commands,you will remain in My love?" Everyone wants a lifethat can stand in…
Scripture - Post 183Bill Perkins
What Does It Mean to Remain?
Commentary "As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Remain in My love." (John 15:9) What Does It Mean to Remain? "As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you.Remain in My love." John 15:9 Remain.The same word Jesus used…
LoveScripture - Post 182Bill Perkins
How to Love Like Jesus Loved
Devotional "Love one another; as I have loved you." (John 13:34) How to Love Like Jesus Loved "Love one another;as I have loved you."John 13:34 Years ago I fell on my kneesbeside my bedand begged Godto save mefrom myself. I could not…
LoveScripture - Post 181Bill Perkins
How to Obey
Commentary "This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you." (John 15:12) How to Obeythe Impossible Command "This is My commandment,that you love one anotheras I have loved you." John 15:12 Jesus does not hide…
LoveScripture - Post 169Bill Perkins
Seek the Peacemaker, Not the Peace
Commentary "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God." (Matthew 5:9) Seek the Peacemaker, Not the Peace "Blessed are the peacemakers,for they shall be called children of God." Matthew 5:9 Peace isn't…
ScriptureBlessed - Post 168Bill Perkins
How to See God
Commentary "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God." (Matthew 5:8) How to See God "Blessed are the pure in heart,for they shall see God." Matthew 5:8 There is a longing we all know-the longing to see God clearly.We…
ScriptureBlessed - Post 167Bill Perkins
Blessed Are The Merciful
Devotional "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy." (Matthew 5:7) Blessed Are The Merciful "Blessed are the merciful,for they shall receive mercy."Matthew 5:7 Mercy is more than feeling someone's pain.It removes the…
ScriptureBlessed - Post 166Bill Perkins
The Beatitudes
Commentary "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied." (Matthew 5:6) The Beatitudes Blessed Are The Hungry "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,for they will be…
ScriptureBlessed - Post 165Bill Perkins
The Beatitudes
Devotional "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth." (Matthew 5:5) The Beatitudes Finders Losers, Losers Keepers "Blessed are the meek,for they shall inherit the earth."Matthew 5:5 The world grabs.Yet God blesses us…
ScriptureBlessed - Post 164Bill Perkins
The Beatitudes
Commentary "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted." (Matthew 5:4) The Beatitudes The Comfort of God "Blessed are those who mourn,for they shall be comforted."Matthew 5:4 There is a mourningevery human heart knows-the…
ScriptureBlessed - Post 163Bill Perkins
The Blessing of Poverty
Devotional "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:3) The Blessing of Poverty "Blessed are the poor in spirit,for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven."Matthew 5:3 He sat down-the posture of a…
ScriptureBlessed - Post 162Bill Perkins
Giving Away Treasure
Commentary "Every scribe trained for the Kingdom is like a householder who brings out treasures- new and old." (Matthew 13:52) Giving Away Treasure "Every scribe trained for the Kingdomis like a householderwho brings out treasures-new…
Scripture - Post 161Bill Perkins
The Dragnet
Devotional - The Dragnet "The kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish." (Matthew 13:47) The Great Separation "The kingdom of heaven is like a netthat was let down into the lake and…
Scripture - Post 160Bill Perkins
The Priceless Pearl
The Priceless Pearl "The Kingdom of heaven is like a gem dealerlooking for beautiful pearls.One day he found a pearl of great price,and he went and sold all he had and bought it." (Matt.13:45-46) Jesus said the Kingdom is likea…
IdentityScripture - Post 159Bill Perkins
Jesus-The Treasure Hunter
Jesus-The Treasure Hunter "The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field,which a man found and hid; and in his joy he goes and sells all he hasand buys that field." (Mt?13:44) Jesus uses hidden treasureto show how the…
IdentityScripture - Post 158Bill Perkins
How to Let the Future In
How to Let the Future In "The kingdom of God is in the midst of you." - Luke 17:21 Jesus says the Kingdom works like leaven-quiet, steady, unstoppable-until the whole life becomes shapedby the future God has already begun. Paul says…
GrowthScripture - Post 157Bill Perkins
Leaving the Old Life Behind
Leaving the Old Life Behind "Beware the leaven of the Pharisees" (Mt. 16:6) "Beware the leaven of the Pharisees." - Matthew 16:6 Leaven is a small piece of old doughsaved from yesterday's batch. It's alive.It's active.And once you…
GrowthScripture - Post 156Bill Perkins
Celebrate Small Beginnings
Devotional "when it has grown? the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches." (Matthew 13:32) Celebrate Small Beginnings "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed?the smallest of all seeds." - Matthew 13:31 Jesus is…
GrowthScripture - Post 155Bill Perkins
Why God Doesn't Remove the Weeds Now
Commentary "Do you want us to pull them up?" (Mt 13:28) Why God Doesn't Remove the Weeds Now "He who sows the good seed is the Son of Man?the field is the world?" - Matthew 13:37 Jesus follows the Parable of the Sowerwith a paired…
GrowthScripture - Post 154Bill Perkins
The Soil of My Heart
The Soil of My Heart "Today if you hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts." (Psalm 95:7-8) "Today if you hear His voice,Do not harden your hearts." Psalm 95:7-8 The last three posts have exploredthe Parable of the Sower.Today, we…
GrowthScripture - Post 153Bill Perkins
What Determines Your Spiritual Growth
What Determines Your Spiritual Growth "Those who were sown on the good soilare the ones who hear the wordand accept it and bear fruit." - Mk 4:20 Jesus is teachinghow the kingdom grows:not by force,but by the condition of the heart.…
GrowthScripture - Post 152Bill Perkins
The Sower Who Never Stops Sowing
The Sower Who Never Stops Sowing "The seed is the word of God." - Lu 8:11 Jesus steps out of the houseand sits beside the sea. (Mt 13:1-2)The crowds gather,and He gives them one word-the word that shapeseverything that follows: Sower.…
GrowthScripture - Post 151Bill Perkins
The Mercy of Parables
Commentary "To you it has been given to know the secrets of the Kingdom." (Mt 13:11) The Mercy of Parables "I will open my mouth in parables;I will utter things hiddensince the foundation of the world." - Mt 13:35 Matthew 13 is the…
Scripture - Post 140Bill Perkins
The Exodus Within
Devotional "spoke about His exodus" (Lk 9:31) The Exodus Within Suddenly a soundlike a mighty rushing windcame from heaven." - Acts 2:2 You may know the stories.Moses at the sea (Ex 14).Elijah in the sky (2 Kgs 2).Pentecost in…
IdentityLife of JesusHoly Spirit - Post 139Bill Perkins
Healing the Wound Judas Left
Commentary "And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias." (Acts 1:26) Healing the Wound Judas Left "And they cast lots for them,and the lot fell on Matthias." (Acts 1:26) They had spent three years with Judas.Walking the…
Discipleship - Post 138Bill Perkins
The First Miracle Was Unity
Devotional "that they may all be one" (Jn 17:21) The First Miracle Was Unity "All these with one accordwere devoting themselves to prayer?"- Acts 1:14 Before the rushing wind of Pentecost.Before the flamesthat rested on each…
UnityHoly Spirit - Post 137Bill Perkins
Why Wait for the Power
Commentary "Stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high." (Luke 24:49) Why Wait for the Power "Stay in the cityuntil you are clothedwith power from on high."Luke 24:49 Before Jesus sent them,He stopped them. Before…
Holy Spirit - Post 136Bill Perkins
When Jesus' Presence Isn't Enough
Devotional "And remember, I am with you always, Even to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:20) When Jesus' Presence Isn't Enough "And remember, I am with you always,Even to the end of the age." Matthew 28:20 Jesus promised His presenceas…
Identity - Post 135Bill Perkins
Have you ever read Scripture
Commentary "Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures." (Luke 24:45) "Then He opened their mindsto understand the Scriptures."Luke 24:45 Have you ever read Scriptureand felt like you should understand it-but you don't?…
Truth - Post 134Bill Perkins
The Day Jesus Handed Us the Mission
Devotional The Day Jesus Handed Us the Mission "You will be My witnesses?" (Ac?1:8) After the resurrection,Jesus did not remainwith His disciplescontinuously.But He did appear to themon many occasionsover forty days (Ac?1:3). He came…
Discipleship - Post 133Bill Perkins
The Key to Making Disciples
Commentary "Follow me as I follow Christ." (1 Cor 11:1) The Key to Making Disciples"Teach them to obeyeverything I have commanded you?"- Matthew 28:20 Teach them to obey?Everything Jesus commanded? For many of us,this is the part of…
Discipleship - Post 132Bill Perkins
The Hidden Meaning of Baptism
Devotional The Hidden Meaning of Baptism "Baptizing them into the Nameof the Father, and of the Son,and of the Holy Spirit."- Mt?28:19 Sometimes a mystery defies understanding.Yet even when we can't fully grasp it,a single word can…
Identity - Post 131Bill Perkins
We Are Excavators
Commentary We Are Excavators "As you go,make disciples."- Matthew 28:19 When Jesus said "make disciples,"He was inviting usinto the same kind of lifeHe had been forming in the men and womenwho walked with Him. A disciple is someonewho…
Discipleship - Post 130Bill Perkins
Jesus Was Baptized Twice
Jesus Was Baptized Twice "But I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is accomplished!" (Lk 12:50) "But I have a baptism to undergo,and how distressed I amuntil it is accomplished!" (Lk 12:50) We often think of…
Identity - Post 129Bill Perkins
Two Verbs That Changed The World
Two Verbs That Changed The World "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations?" (Matt 28:19) When Jesus finally gave themtheir mission,He didn't hand them a planto admire.He gave them wordsto obey. "Go?and make disciples?"(Matt…
Discipleship - Post 128Bill Perkins
The Moment the Disciples Finally Saw Their Future
The Moment the Disciples Finally Saw Their Future "Do not be afraid. Go and tell My brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see Me." (Matt 28:10) Jesus told His disciplesto meet Him on a mountain in Galilee,north of the Sea of…
Discipleship - Post 127Bill Perkins
The Question Jesus Asks a Broken Man
The Question Jesus Asks a Broken Man "When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, 'Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?'" (Jn 21:15) "When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter,'Simon…
Forgiveness - Post 126Bill Perkins
Jesus Final Four Miracles
Jesus Final Four Miracles "Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Galilee." (Jn 21:1) Jesus hadn't appeared in over a week. So Peter said, "I'm going fishing." (Jn 21:3)Six others went with him.All night they fished.
Identity - Post 125Bill Perkins
The Day Jesus Completed Earlier Stories
The Day Jesus Completed Earlier Stories "Children, do you have any fish?" (Jn 21:5) "Children, do you have any fish?" (Jn 21:5) You may not know this about Jesus,but on the seashore after His resurrection,He wasn't just creating new…
Discipleship - Post 123Bill Perkins
Jesus Turned Yesterday into Tomorrow
Jesus Turned Yesterday into Tomorrow "As the Father sent Me, so I send you." (Jn 20.21) As the Father sent MeJn 20.21 Fear clung to themlike smoke after a fire.The doors were shut.The room felt small.The fatigue of sleepless nights.And…
Hope - Post 122Bill Perkins
When Your Theology Keeps You From Seeing the Truth
When Your Theology Keeps You From Seeing the Truth "Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures." (Luke 24:45) "Then He opened their mindsto understand the Scriptures." Luke 24:45 I counted thirty-one timesJesus…
Truth - Post 121Bill Perkins
When Jesus Walks Through Locked Doors
When Jesus Walks Through Locked Doors "Peace I Leave With You." (John 20:21) John 20:19-21When Jesus Walks Through Locked Doors "Peace I Leave With You."John 20:21 Evening settled over Jerusalemlike a gathering storm. Fear barred the doors.
Identity - Post 119Bill Perkins
Thursday
Thursday "Do not cling to Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father?" (Jn 20:17) A Name Jesus Used For The First Time "Do not cling to Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father?" (Jn 20:17) Mary reached for Himand held Him…
Identity - Post 118Bill Perkins
Tuesday
Tuesday Why Jesus Appeared to Mary First "Woman, why are you weeping?Who are you looking for?" - Jn 20:15 Mary stood outside the tombweeping. As she wept,she stoopedand looked in. She saw two angels in white-one at the head,one at the…
Love - Post 117Bill Perkins
Monday after Easter
Monday after Easter Who Stole the Body? "Then the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first,also went in, and he saw and believed." - Jn 20:8 As she ran,Mary encountered Peter and John "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb,and…
Truth - Post 116Bill Perkins
Easter Sunday
Easter Sunday "They saw that the stone had been rolled away, though it was very large." (Mk 16:4) Why Was The Stone Removed? "They saw that the stone had been rolled away, though it was very large." (Mk 16:4) Before sunrise,the women…
Hope - Post 115Bill Perkins
Good Friday
Good Friday Jesus' Sixth Word From The Cross "It is finished."- John 19:30 Jesus didn't whisper this word.He declared it. A single breathcarrying the weightof His mission. In the ancient world,a man's charges were written on a…
Salvation - Post 114Bill Perkins
Thursday
Thursday "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" (PS 22:1) Jesus' Third Word From The Cross "My God, My God,why have You forsaken Me?"(PS 22:1) When Jesus cried these words,He hadn't lost faith.Abandonment wasn't the…
Identity - Post 113Bill Perkins
Wednesday
Wednesday "Truly I tell you, today you will be with Me in paradise." (Luke 23:43) Jesus Second Word From the Cross "Truly I tell you, today you will be with Me in paradise."Luke 23:43 One of the most encouraging storiesin the Gospelsis…
Hope - Post 112Bill Perkins
Tuesday
Tuesday Jesus' First Word From the Cross "Father, forgive them,for they don't knowwhat they're doing."-?Lu?23:34 He hung there-suspended by nailsthrough His wrists and feet. Soldiers laughing.Leaders sneering.The crowd mocking. Both…
Forgiveness - Post 111Bill Perkins
Monday
Monday The Most Beautiful Word In Greek "I came into the world-to bear witness to the truth." - John 18:37 When I studied Greek,I cherished one word. A word so beautiful,my wife and I would have given it to a daughterhad God blessed us…
Truth - Post 110Bill Perkins
The God of Six Chances
The God of Six Chances "Everyone who is of the truth listens to My voice."- John 18:38 God didn't rush the verdict-He interrupted it at every turn,giving Pilate room to choosewhat was right,even though it held risk. The six trials of…
Forgiveness - Post 109Bill Perkins
The High Priest Condemned Our High Priest
The High Priest Condemned Our High Priest "You have heard His blasphemy.What is your decision?"And they all condemned Him to death." - Mk 14:64 You may not know this about Jesus,but after the first trial,they dragged Him to a second…
- Post 108Bill Perkins
What Happened Between the Garden and the Cross
What Happened Between the Garden and the Cross "The soldiers arrested Jesus and bound Him, and brought Him first to Annas." (John 18:12-13) "The soldiers arrested Jesusand bound Him,and brought Him first to Annas."John 18:12-13 Most…
- Post 107Bill Perkins
Surrounded by an Invisible Army
Surrounded by an Invisible Army "When Jesus said to them, 'I am he,'they drew back and fell to the ground." - Jn 18:6 They thought they had Jesus surrounded.Two hundred soldiers.Torches.Armor.It looked easy-a rabbi cornered in a garden.
Spiritual Warfare - Post 106Bill Perkins
Why Jesus Called Judas "Friend"
Why Jesus Called Judas "Friend" "Friend, do you betray the Son of Man with a kiss?" (Luke 22:48) A kiss.A word.Two gestures in the Gardenthat seem like expressionsof friendship. But neither meanswhat it appears to mean. Judas'…
Forgiveness - Post 105Bill Perkins
The Wolf in the Garden
The Wolf in the Garden "Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me;yet not My will, but Yours be done." - Luke 22:42 You may not know this about jesusbut He felt itwhen He entered the garden- like stepping into a caveand knowing…
Prayer - Post 104Bill Perkins
The Press In The Garden
The Press In The Garden "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; yet not as I will, but as You will." (Matt. 26:39) "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrowto the point of death." - Mark 14:34 Gethsemane-olive press.A…
Prayer - Post 103Bill Perkins
How the Father Lifts You
How the Father Lifts You "I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser." (John 15:1) "I am the true vine,and My Father is the vinedresser."John 15:1 It was a cold night when they left the Upper Room,cold enough that later the…
Growth - Post 102Bill Perkins
It Was Night
It Was Night "And it was night." (Jn 13:30) "And it was night."Jn 13:30 The door closed behind Judas,and John wrote,"And it was night." To the city, it looked like any other Passover night-crowded streets,lamps burning inside…
Identity - Post 101Bill Perkins
Why Jesus Taught Us To Pray To The Father
Why Jesus Taught Us To Pray To The Father "Father? glorify Your Son" (John 17:1) "In that day you will ask the Father in My name?for the Father Himself loves you." John?16:23,?27 The hour had come (John 17:1)The Cross cast its…
PrayerWorship - Post 100Bill Perkins
The Four Breaths of God
THE FOUR BREATHS OF GOD "And with that He breathed on them and said, 'Receive the Holy Spirit.'" (John 20:22) "And with that He breathed on them and said,'Receive the Holy Spirit.'"John 20:22 In the beginning, God spoke-and darkness…
Holy Spirit - Post 99Bill Perkins
God's Terrifying Grace-A Personal Story
God's Terrifying Grace-A Personal Story "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you." (John 14:27) "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you.Not as the world gives do I give to…
Grace - Post 98Bill Perkins
How Jesus Tries to Protect You from Yourself
HOW JESUS TRIES TO PROTECT YOU FROM YOURSELF "I am telling you now before it happens,so that when it does happen you will believe."- John 13:19 In the Upper Room Jesus warned them.All of them.Before a sword was drawn,or a rooster crowed.
Identity - Post 97Bill Perkins
Jesus Replaced the Golden Rule With a Higher One
Jesus Replaced the Golden Rule With a Higher One "Love one another; as I have loved you." (John 13:34) "Love one another; as I have loved you."John 13:34 Judas has left the room.The seat he left still warm.The door still swinging.…
Love - Post 96Bill Perkins
Jesus Made A Vow That Involves You
Jesus Made A Vow That Involves You "I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until the Kingdom comes" (Luke 22:18) Jesus made a vow in the Upper Roomthat's easy to overlook. And that's no wonder.After all, it sitsin the shadow…
Hope - Post 95Bill Perkins
Why Did Jesus Choose Judas Iscariot
- "He went out to the mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. And when it was day, He called His disciples to Him; and from them He chose twelve?" (Luke 6:12-13) Why Did Jesus Choose Judas Iscariot "He went out to…
PrayerLife of Jesus - Post 94Bill Perkins
-
- "Having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end." (John 13:1) Passover to Pentecost Why Jesus Laid Aside His Robe of Honor"Having loved His own who were in the world,He loved them to the end."John 13:1 The Upper…
Love - Post 93Bill Perkins
Why His Disciples Couldn't Find Jesus
Why His Disciples Couldn't Find Jesus "Simon and his companions went to look for Him."-Mark 1:36 "Very early in the morning,while it was still dark,Jesus got up, left the house,and went off to a solitary place,where He prayed."-Mark…
PrayerLife of Jesus - Post 92Bill Perkins
Jesus Restores the Ones You Love
Jesus Restores the Ones You Love "They begged Him to help her."-Luke 4:38 Jesus had just silenced a demon in the synagogue.The room was still buzzing.(Mark 1:21-28) But when He stepped into Peter's house,He stepped into a new front in…
HealingSpiritual WarfareLife of Jesus - Post 91Bill Perkins
Jesus Understands When A Truth About You Is Weaponized
Jesus Understands When A Truth About You Is Weaponized "In the synagogue there was a man possessed by a demon?'I know who You Are-the Holy One of God!'"-Luke 4:33-34 I used to read the deliverance in the synagogueas just a dramatic…
IdentityLife of Jesus - Post 90Bill Perkins
Jesus' First Encounter With a Demon
Jesus' First Encounter With a Demon "Be silent. Come out of him." (Mark 1:25) "Be silent. Come out of him." (Mark 1:25) The Capernaum synagoguewas crowded with men in clean linen robes-cream, beige, soft blues, muted reds-sandals wiped…
Spiritual WarfareLife of Jesus - Post 89Bill Perkins
Jesus Sees The You Others Can't See
Jesus Sees The You Others Can't See "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick." -Matthew 9:12 As Jesus taught by the shore,a crowd pressed around Him-hungry for His words-manna in the desert. He finished…
IdentityLife of Jesus - Post 88Bill Perkins
Jesus Touched a Lepers Skin and Reached His Soul
Jesus Touched a Lepers Skin and Reached His Soul "A man full of leprosy fell on his face and begged Him, saying, 'If You want to, You can make me clean.'" (Luke 5:12) "A man full of leprosy fell on his faceand begged Him, saying,'If…
HealingLife of Jesus - Post 87Bill Perkins
Why Peter Fell to His Knees in a Boat
Why Peter Fell to His Knees in a Boat "Behold the Lamb." (John 1:29, 36) "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men."And immediately they left their nets and followed Him. - Matthew 4:19-20 Peter, Andrew, James, and John hadn't…
DiscipleshipLife of Jesus - Post 86Bill Perkins
He Fills Net--Sized Obedience With Nets--Sized Blessing
He Fills Net--Sized Obedience With Nets--Sized Blessing "From now on you will catch men." (Luke 5:10) "When He had finished speaking, He said to Simon, 'Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch.' (Jordan, this…
ObedienceLife of Jesus - Post 85Bill Perkins
The Woman at the Well Isn't Who You Thought
The Woman at the Well Isn't Who You Thought "Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in Him because of the woman's testimony." - John 4:39 Before we talk about the woman Jesus met at Jacob's well,we need to talk about the well…
ForgivenessLife of Jesus - Post 84Bill Perkins
He Leads Us Through What We Want to Go Around
He Leads Us Through What We Want to Go Around "On His way He had to pass through Samaria" (John 4:4) "On His way He had to pass through Samaria" (John 4:4). Jesus often leads us into places we would never choose.And that's where…
Life of Jesus - Post 83Bill Perkins
Jesus Is The Paradigm Shift
Jesus Is The Paradigm Shift "Unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." (John 3:3) "Jesus answered him, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.'" - John 3:3 A paradigm…
IdentityLife of Jesus - Post 82Bill Perkins
Why Jesus Didn't Entrust Himself to People
Why Jesus Didn't Entrust Himself to People "But Jesus on His part did not entrust Himself to them, for He knew all people." (John 2:24) Jerusalem was alive with Passover pilgrims-word spreading that a young Rabbi from Galileewas doing…
IdentityLife of Jesus - Post 81Bill Perkins
The Jesus Who Warms You Also Purifies You
The Jesus Who Warms You Also Purifies You "And Jesus entered the Temple, and His zeal rose like fire, driving out what did not belong." (John 2:13-17) "And Jesus entered the Temple, and His zeal rose like fire,driving out what did not…
Life of Jesus - Post 80Bill Perkins
Why Did Jesus Seem to Contradict Himself?
Why Did Jesus Seem to Contradict Himself? "Woman, what is this to Me and to you?" (John 2:4) "Woman, what is this to Me and to you?" (John 2:4) Yesterday we saw this wasn't a rebuke to Mary,but the opening of a quiet…
Life of Jesus - Post 79Bill Perkins
Did Jesus Really Rebuke His Mother?
Did Jesus Really Rebuke His Mother? "This, the first of His signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee, and manifested His glory. And His disciples believed in Him." (John 2:11) "This, the first of His signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee,and…
Life of Jesus - Post 78Bill Perkins
Jesus Began His Ministry With a Bridge
Jesus Began His Ministry With a Bridge "Follow Me" (John 1:43) Andrew was the first to meet Jesus (John 1:35–37).The first to stay with Him (John 1:39).The first to bring someone else (John 1:40–41). He brought his brother—Simon…
DiscipleshipLife of Jesus - Post 77Bill Perkins
Jesus' First Invitation
Jesus' First Invitation "Behold, the Lamb of God" (John 1:36) "Come and see." — John 1:39John 1:35–39; John 15:4 Jesus turned and saw them following—Andrew and the unnamed disciple. Moments earlier they had been standing beside John…
DiscipleshipLife of Jesus - Post 76Bill Perkins
An Invisible Disciple Fostered Expectation
An Invisible Disciple Fostered Expectation "My soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning." (Psalm 130:6) "My soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning." Psalm 130:6 The riverbank heaved with…
HopeLife of Jesus - Post 75Bill Perkins
Jesus Revealed Why The Father Loves The Unlovable
Jesus Revealed Why The Father Loves The Unlovable "He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous." (Matthew 5:45) "He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good,and sends…
GraceLife of Jesus - Post 74Bill Perkins
Why The Pharisees Resisted The Father's Love
Why The Pharisees Resisted The Father's Love "And he was angry and refused to go in." (Luke 15:28) "And he was angry and refused to go in."Luke 15:28 Let's look again at the Lord's most famous parable—the prodigal son. The younger son…
ForgivenessLife of Jesus - Post 73Bill Perkins
1/22/26
Why Jesus Ate With Sinners "And the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled, saying,'This man receives sinners and eats with them.'"Luke 15:2 The Pharisees' unspoken question hung in the air:"Why does He eat with sinners?" They couldn't…
ForgivenessLife of Jesus - Post 72Bill Perkins
One Miracle Proved Jesus is God
Christ's Claim to Deity "When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, 'Son, your sins are forgiven.'" (Mark 2:5) One Miracle Proved Jesus is God "When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic,'Son, your sins…
IdentityForgivenessLife of Jesus - Post 71Bill Perkins
A Jew Called Jesus God — And Jesus Didn't Correct Him
Christ's Claim to Deity A Jew Called Jesus God — And Jesus Didn't Correct Him "Thomas said to Him, 'My Lord and my God.'" — John 20:28 All the evidence Thomas demandedevaporated the moment Jesus stood before him—fully…
IdentityLife of Jesus - Post 69Bill Perkins
Jesus' Unequivocal Claim to Be God
Christ's Claim to Deity "You will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven." (Mark 14:62) Jesus' Unequivocal Claim to Be God "You will see the Son of Manseated at the right hand of…
IdentityLife of Jesus - Post 67Bill Perkins
Why Jesus Waited for Lazarus to Die
Why Jesus Waited for Lazarus to Die "So then he told them plainly,'Lazarus is dead, and for your sake I am glad I was not there,so that you may believe.'" -John 11:14-15 "Glad."Not for death itself-His weeping at the tomb reveals His heart.
HealingLife of Jesus - Post 66Bill Perkins
The Most Important Question Jesus Asked
The Most Important Question Jesus Asked "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." (Matthew 16:16) Jesus didn't begin by questioning the crowd.He spoke first to His disciples:"Who do people…
IdentityLife of Jesus - Post 65Bill Perkins
The Second Most Important Question Jesus Asked
The Second Most Important Question Jesus Asked "Simon son of John, do you love Me more than these?" - John 21:15 Peter had failed.Not quietly or privately-he denied Jesus three times,just as Jesus said he would. And after the…
Life of Jesus - Post 64Bill Perkins
The Third Most Important Question Jesus Asked
The Third Most Important Question Jesus Asked "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" (Luke 18:38) "What do you want me to do for you?" - Luke 18:41 As Jesus entered Jericho,a blind man cried out:"Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!
Life of Jesus - Post 63Bill Perkins
The Fourth Most Important Question Jesus Asked
The Fourth Most Important Question Jesus Asked "Why are you so afraid?" - Mark 4:40 Before the storm,the disciples had seen Jesus heal the sick,cast out demons,and multiply food. They had watched supernatural power flow through…
HealingLife of Jesus - Post 61Bill Perkins
Jesus Really Was a Refugee
Jesus Really Was a Refugee "take the child and His mother and escape to Egypt." (Matthew 2:13) "Get up," the angel said, "take the child and His mother and escape to Egypt." Matthew 2:13 Jesus was a refugee.Not metaphorically.Not…
Christmas - Post 60Bill Perkins
Nine Witnesses Who Established Christ's Identity
Nine Witnesses Who Established Christ's Identity "A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses." —Deuteronomy 19:15 Christmas is not a whisper—it's a verdict. The Father would not allowHis Son's identityto…
Christmas - Post 59Bill Perkins
Jesus' First Temple Visit Ended a Watchman's Vigil
Jesus' First Temple Visit Ended a Watchman's Vigil "Simeon took Him in his arms and praised God, saying, 'Sovereign Lord, as You have promised, You may now dismiss Your servant in peace.'" —Luke 2:28–29 Christmas celebrates His…
Christmas - Post 58Bill Perkins
His Birth Proved God is Safe
His Birth Proved God is Safe "And she gave birth to her firstborn son; she wrapped Him in cloths and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." — Luke 2:7 When Israel camped at Sinai,the mountain…
Christmas - Post 57Bill Perkins
The Baby's Cry Was God's First Breath
The Baby's Cry Was God's First Breath "For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." (Luke 2:11) "For today in the city of Davidthere has been born for you a Savior,who is Christ the Lord.
Christmas - Post 56Bill Perkins
The Star of Bethlehem Isn't What You Thought
The Star of Bethlehem Isn't What You Thought "And behold, the star which they had seen in the east went before them until it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy.
Christmas - Post 55Bill Perkins
A Shepherd Tells What He Saw
A Shepherd Tells What He Saw "And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God." — Luke 2:13 The sheep were asleep,a quilt of white wool across the hillside,their soft shifting the only rhythm in the…
Christmas - Post 54Bill Perkins
While Yet Unborn, John Announced the Arrival of Jesus
While Yet Unborn, John Announced the Arrival of Jesus When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb. (Luke 1:41) Silence—in the womb.Two mothers carried mystery,two children carried promise. Mary's greeting broke…
Christmas - Post 53Bill Perkins
The Burden Joseph Carried for Jesus
The Burden Joseph Carried for Jesus "The Lord Himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son." (Isaiah 7:14) "She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus" — Matthew 1:21 The…
Christmas - Post 52Bill Perkins
The Room Joseph Built Became Heaven's Pattern For You
The Room Joseph Built Became Heaven's Pattern For You "In My Father's house are many rooms… I go to prepare a place for you." (John 14:2–3) "In My Father's house are many rooms… I go to prepare a place for you." (John 14:2–3) Joseph…
Christmas - Post 51Bill Perkins
A Dreamer Saved Jesus' Life
A Dreamer Saved Jesus' Life "He arose and took the child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt." —Matthew 2:14 No waiting for the alarm.No packing the house.No warning to neighbors.No delay—birds escaping the hunter's net. Why…
Christmas - Post 50Bill Perkins
Jesus Was Named Twice Before His Birth
Jesus Was Named Twice Before His Birth "The angel told Joseph, 'You shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.'" (Matthew 1:21) Jesus Was Named Twice Before His Birth "The angel told Joseph, 'You shall call His name Jesus…
Christmas - Post 49Bill Perkins
Jesus is the God of the Third Way
12-12 CHRISTMAS POST Jesus is the God of the Third Way "He arose and took the child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt." —Matthew 2:14 Let's consider Joseph.He didn't wait for the alarm.He didn't pack the house.He didn't…
Christmas - Post 48Bill Perkins
What Jesus Brought With Him
What Jesus Brought With Him . In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.—John…
Christmas - Post 47Bill Perkins
Jesus Compared Himself to the Serpent
Jesus Compared Himself to the Serpent "Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in Him." —John 3:14–15…
Life of Jesus - Post 46Bill Perkins
When Jesus Demanded Repentance, He Didn't Mean What You May Think
When Jesus Demanded Repentance, He Didn't Mean What You May Think "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." —Matthew 3:8"Repent and believe the good news." —Mark 1:15 Most people hear "repent" and picture behavior:Stop sinning. Start obeying.Turn around.…
ForgivenessLife of Jesus - Post 45Bill Perkins
Jesus Received Worship in a Scandalous Way
Jesus Received Worship in a Scandalous Way "As she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them.
Life of Jesus - Post 44Bill Perkins
The Father Loves You as He Loves the Son
The Father Loves You as He Loves the Son "I in them and You in Me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that You sent Me and have loved them even as You have loved Me.…
Life of Jesus - Post 43Bill Perkins
When You Consume His Words, You Consume His Flesh
When You Consume His Words, You Consume His Flesh "I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats this bread, he will live forever. And the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh." — John 6:51…
Life of Jesus - Post 42Bill Perkins
Why Jesus Let 5,000 Demons Drown 2,000 Pigs
Why Jesus Let 5,000 Demons Drown 2,000 Pigs "He gave them permission, and the impure spirits came out and went into the pigs. The herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and was drowned." — Luke 8:32 Decapolis—ten Gentile cities…
Spiritual WarfareLife of Jesus - Post 41Bill Perkins
He Rebuked the Demon Behind the Storm
He Rebuked the Demon Behind the Storm "He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm." — Luke 8:24 Jesus didn't just calm a storm.He rebuked it. The word used—epitimaō—is the same word He…
AdventLife of Jesus - Post 40Bill Perkins
He Didn't Just Take the High Ground, He Staged It
He Didn't Just Take the High Ground, He Staged It Jesus had just declared war. Standing in Caesarea Philippi-a city drenched in pagan worship, shadowed by a cave locals called the gate to the underworld-He said: "On this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades…
HealingLife of Jesus - Post 39Bill Perkins
Why Jesus Didn't Heal Everyone
"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us." -1 John 5:14 The Gospels say Jesus healed “all who came to Him” (Matthew 8:16)…
HealingLife of JesusPrayer - Post 38Bill Perkins
He Gave Thanks Knowing What the Bread and Wine Meant
He Gave Thanks Knowing What the Bread and Wine Meant "He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, 'This is my body given for you?'" Luke 22:19-20 - Jesus gave thanks knowing what the bread and wine meant. The bread pointed to His body-offered like…
Worship - Post 37Bill Perkins
He Gave Thanks Surrounded by Betrayal
He Gave Thanks Surrounded by Betrayal "But the hand of him who is going to betray me is with mine on the table." - Luke 22:21 Jesus gave thanks at the Last Supper knowing Judas had made his deal. He gave thanks knowing Peter would deny Him. He gave thanks knowing His…
Worship - Post 36Bill Perkins
He Gave Thanks Before the Miracle
He Gave Thanks Before the Miracle "Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted." - John 6:11 Fifteen thousand hungry faces. Five loaves. Two fish. One command to feed the crowd. Philip counts the cost. Andrew…
Worship - Post 35Bill Perkins
You Can't See Jesus Through a Peephole
You Can't See Jesus Through a Peephole John doesn't begin with a manger. He begins with majesty. Not with what we can touch, but with what we can't fully comprehend. The Word was in the beginning. The Word was with God. The Word was God. This isn't a puzzle to be solved. It's…
- Post 34Bill Perkins
He Passed a Forgotten Test
He Passed a Forgotten Test "Do not put the Lord your God to the test, as you did at Massah." - Deuteronomy 6:16 When Satan tempted Jesus to leap from the temple, it wasn't just a dare-it was a reenactment of a forgotten test. At Massah, Israel demanded proof of God's…
- Post 32Bill Perkins
He Offers an Alternative to Worry
He Offers an Alternative to Worry Passage "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." - Matthew 6:33 Jesus knows our worries: food, clothing, tomorrow's needs. He doesn't dismiss them, but He exposes their…
- Post 31Bill Perkins
Why the Father Spoke at the Transfiguration
Why the Father Spoke at the Transfiguration He didn't just affirm Jesus-the Father commanded attention. "This is My Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased. Listen to Him!" -Matthew 17:5 High on a mountain, Jesus stood with Peter, James, and John. His face shone like…
Identity - Post 1968Bill Perkins
How Jesus Dealt With Distractions
Because I work from home, I continually deal with distractions. Unread e-mails, sports scores to check, news to read, phone calls to answer, phone calls to make, my wife asking for help, the dog wanting to go out, the dog wanting to…
- Post 1955Bill Perkins
Is Jesus like Superman?
Some people think following Jesus is as impossible as following Superman. They have no problem tailing Clark Kent up fifty flights of stairs, but things get tougher when the Man of Steel leaps off the roof and flies away. Such thinking…
- Post 1937Bill Perkins
The disciples' myside bias
Like a radar system that only detects enemy planes while ignoring friendlies, our minds tend to pick up information that supports what we already believe and ignores the rest. This is called confirmation, or myside bias. It’s the…
- Post 1934Bill Perkins
How did the disciples miss this
Twenty-three times Jesus made direct or indirect reference to his death and resurrection. And yet, the disciples never understood what he was talking about. Once, after he told them he would die and be raised from the dead, the…
- Post 1923Bill Perkins
What would you do?
Every week the news carries stories of vulnerable people who have been beaten, robbed, harassed, and murdered. Because such stories are about people who live on the other side of the world, across town, or in another city, it’s normal…
- Post 1912Bill Perkins
Believing an unbelievable promise
While Jesus made some astounding promises, none is harder to believe than this one: “Whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these . . . ” (John 14:12). But before…
- Post 1900Bill Perkins
A Promise Nobody Believes
Have you ever considered the unbelievable promises Jesus made? Personally, I find comfort in most of the Lord’s promises. For instance, in John 14:27 Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the…
- Post 1895Bill Perkins
What do you see in this picture?
What do you see when you look at the image above? Before reading on, take a moment and examine the picture. Most people see either a rabbit or a duck. And then after a moment or so they see both. It’s amazing that something can be…
- Post 1854Bill Perkins
My New Year’s Challenge
Forty-seven months ago I had an insight that changed my life. I realized that while I had written three books based on the ministry model of Jesus, read numerous books on his life, contributed notes on the Gospels to three study…
- Post 1750Bill Perkins
Is Jesus Really Superman?
Of course, it would be easy to think we could no more follow Jesus' example than we could follow the example of Superman. After all, Jesus was fully God and man. I suspect most people figure they could at least try to follow him when…
- Post 1741Bill Perkins
Hold up my hands, please!
You would never expect a battle to be won because a man, standing on a hill, held up his hands. And yet, that’s what happened when the Jews fought an enemy in the wilderness of Rephidim. Understanding why this happened involves a small…
- Post 1733Bill Perkins
I can't do this without you
I’ve never needed the partnership of friends more than now. I’ve worked for a year to bring The Jesus Story to a place where it’s ready to be printed and shipped. It’s been a labor of love and I think when you watch the video, or watch…
- Post 1715Bill Perkins
I’m nervous and curious
I’ve got to admit, I’m nervous. Not a frightened kind of nervous. But an excited kind of nervous. Like a kid before the first day of school. Or, an athlete before a championship game. The good kind of nervous. You would be too, I think.
- Post 1704Bill Perkins
COUNTDOWN: 8 days to launch
Several years ago I realized I didn’t know Jesus very well. This insight surprised me. After all, I had been his follower for four decades, taught about his life and teaching, written two books based on his life and ministry, and…
- Post 1636Bill Perkins
One Word That Changed My View
I'm not sure why Jesus brought Peter, James and John into the garden of Gethsemane with him. Did he hope, like disciplined sentries, they would alertly stand guard? Or, was he like a soldier who lets his young son sleep with him the…
- Post 1583Bill Perkins
What Jesus Do You Listen To?
Last month I read through the four Gospels and looked for instances where Jesus referred to his death and resurrection. As I did, I found myself amazed at how many times his disciples heard him speak on the subject without…
- Post 1572Bill Perkins
Facing What You Fear
Had you sat next to Jesus in Gethsemane, knowing what he would face the next day, you probably would have concluded he wasn't up to the task. If just the thought of crucifixion affected him so dramatically, what would the actual event…
- Post 1565Bill Perkins
What Would You Do With This Woman?
Even though most women have been hurt by men at some time in their lives, efforts are made in our culture to protect the rights of women. Such wasn’t the case in ancient Israel. At the time of Jesus, women suffered under cultural…
- Post 1549Bill Perkins
The One Word Jesus Said Ten Times
The outdoor survivalist talking on television sported a stubby beard, worn jeans, a faded camo-shirt, and dirty hiking boots. Holding a small magnifying glass he had swiveled out of a vinyl case, and speaking out the side of his mouth…
- Post 1545Bill Perkins
The Whisper of Satan We Hear Every Day
I don’t like to think I’m lazy. I mean, I don’t want to be. Yet, I seem to constantly battle it. Except when I don’t. On those days Laziness and I kick back and relax—like old friends. There are even weeks when we hang out for days at…
- Post 1520Bill Perkins
The Power of Desperation
In the movie, Wild , there is a scene where the lead character, Cheryl Strayed, played by Reese Witherspoon, enters a clothing boutique in Ashland, Oregon after hiking 700 miles along the Pacific Coast Trail, alone. After putting on…
- Post 1498Bill Perkins
I Never Saw That Before
One of the most memorable learning experiences of my life occurred when Professor Howard Hendricks required all of his students, including me, to come up with 25 observations from Acts 1:8. As a first year seminary student the…
- Post 1251Thomas Wells
I Was Wrong About Jesus
For the first eight years of my life, my family attended a Baptist church. So every Sunday I crafted felt cutouts of Jonah, Moses, and David, sang about the walls of Jericho crumbling down, and acted out stories of Jesus and his many…
- Post 1241Bill Perkins
Would Jesus Endorse Gay Marriage?
I never would have stuck my nose into this business except for what I heard Elton John say during a CNN interview last week, “If Jesus Christ was alive today, I cannot see him, as the Christian person that he was and the great person…
- Post 646Bill Perkins
How to Encourage a Discouraged Friend
Leaders typically manipulate others to acquire power. That's why you'd expect a king's son to use his push and pull to acquire his father's throne. And that's what makes Jonathan so unusual. He was the ancient prince who wanted…
LeadershipRelationships - Post 619Bill Perkins
Do This to Make Friends
It may surprise you to discover that there is nothing you can do to endear yourself to others more than opening up and being vulnerable. If you'll build more windows and fewer walls, you'll have more shoulder to shoulder friends. We…
Personal GrowthRelationships - Post 610Bill Perkins
How to Avoid a Bad Decision
It's so easy to gather all of the information, get wise counsel, weigh the pros and cons and then forget to pray before making an important decision. And yet, if the greatest leader of all time who was without sin, who never made a bad…
Personal GrowthPrayer - Post 546Bill Perkins
Removing Gum Out of Someone's Hair
Telling someone how to give a rebuke is a bit like telling him how to get gum out of someone's hair. No matter how careful he might be, it's going to hurt. On the other hand, who wants to go through life with a wad of gum stuck on the…
Personal GrowthSin - Post 529Bill Perkins
The IRS Scandal and You
I've had the privilege of being audited by the IRS on three separate occasions. In each instance the auditor found a legitimate mistake an accountant had made and a payment had to be made. No big deal. Right? Well, not exactly. It was…
Personal GrowthSin - Post 519Bill Perkins
How to Communicate a Vision
Time and again Jesus reminded his disciples that his driving purpose was to seek and save lost people. On the day he called his first disciples he said, "I will make you fishers of men" (Matthew 4:19). When he recruited Levi he said…
Leadership - Post 505Bill Perkins
Jesus Repeated One Word Ten Times
Jesus' words and deeds on the night of the Last Supper were focused on helping the disciples grasp a truth as revolutionary as the first use of an incandescent light. "On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are…
Personal Growth - Post 475Bill Perkins
Buy Into Two Truths!
Dwight D. Eisenhower defined leadership as, "the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it." If you accept that definition of leadership (it's my favorite) then you're buying into two truths.…
Leadership - Post 460Bill Perkins
He Slammed His Fist on My Desk!
Jesus struck at the root of pride with a sharp ax. He said, "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Brother, let me take the…
Personal GrowthSin - Post 429Bill Perkins
Everything Stands or Falls On This
Confused and afraid, the disciples left the upper room and stepped onto the narrow Jerusalem street. The frigid air--just like their growing fear--surrounded them, nipping at their faces and cutting through their robes. Holding their…
Personal Growth - Post 344Bill Perkins
I Saw a Miracle
I suspect over the years I've prayed for thousands of sick people. I'm happy to say most of them recovered ... but not everyone. Some of the most agonizing prayers I've uttered seemed to have no effect on the outcome. Such…
Tough QuestionsPrayer - Post 312Bill Perkins
Rein in Toxic Thoughts and Emotions
I was eight years old and riding a quarter horse across some land my family owned outside of Roswell, New Mexico. As I headed the horse away from the stables he repeatedly resisted my lead and tried to reverse direction. After we had…
Personal Growth - Post 302Bill Perkins
Fear Buster--Break the Power of Fear
Fear is a powerful emotion that can steal hope, dissipate energy, trigger depression, and undermine confidence. It's also a culprit I know too well. In fact, last December I was battling a fear that almost pushed me into a vortex of…
Personal Growth - Post 288Bill Perkins
Can You Do This? Got the Guts to Try?
I was thinking a negative thought the other night. It was the kind of negative thought I frequently had. In fact, it was so common I believed it was me--part of my identity. I was thinking about winters in Oregon. Since I moved here…
Personal Growth - Post 246Bill Perkins
I Don't Want to Be a Control Freak!
Lately the Lord has been prodding me to stop trying to control other people. This direction from God is in response to how I often try to fix family members, friends, strangers, businesses and, well, you name it. I don't mean I…
Personal Growth - Post 223Bill Perkins
What Are You Afraid Of?
Men have a tendency to isolate themselves. Our culture admires independent tough-guys like Dirty Harry, Rambo, Terminator, Robocop, and James Bond. Nobody gives an inch. Nobody opens up. Nobody gets hurt. (I looked for some current…
Personal Growth - Post 168Bill Perkins
Tapping Blue Jays
Just the other day, while I was working in my home office, there was a blue jay on my roof, banging away on an unshelled peanut he'd taken from the bird feeder on the back deck. It was the sort of tapping that can't be ignored…
Personal Growth - Post 133Bill Perkins
The Value of Solitude
As the October release of my new book, The Jesus Experiment, draws near I want to give you a sneak peek. It’s understandable to think we could no more emulate Jesus than we could copy Superman. We might shadow Clark Kent up a flight of…
- Post 76Bill Perkins
Is Following Jesus as Impossible as Following Superman?
Imitating Jesus in prayer might sound as impossible as emulating Superman's flying capabilities. We might shadow Clark Kent up a flight of stairs, but we're not going to follow the Man of Steel off a tall building. Likewise, I suspect…