David Mathis | How did Jesus know Scripture so well? The same way we can today: through patient, prayerful meditation on the word of God.

God is sovereign, and he has purposed his gospel to spread to the ends of the earth. Those who give themselves to that purpose are invincible, even through suffering.

Explore Jesus' pace and patterns of a perfect life, emphasizing the importance of an unhurried approach to spiritual nourishment. Learn from Jesus' example of retreating for solitude and prayer, finding balance in serving others. Discover the power of connecting with God through solitude and reflection, following Jesus' rhythm of withdrawing to pray and returning to serve with compassion.

God will have worshipers from every nation on earth. He will win them, and do so through us. We have only to tell them.

David Mathis | What does it look like to walk in a way that is pleasing to God — to live so that God delights in the aroma of our lives?

When Christ calls us to the mission field with him, he calls us to deny shallow pleasures, die to ourselves, and enjoy greater and greater delight in him.

David Mathis | Of the fifteen elder qualifications, “one-woman man” and “not quarrelsome” may be the two most at odds with our promiscuous, petty age.

David Mathis | Scripture says elders should be “able to teach” and “sober-minded” — but why? The two correspond to a pastor’s most important tasks: feeding and leading.

Matthew’s Christmas story shows two ways to deal with Jesus: try to get rid of him like Herod, or fall down and worship him like the wise men.

David Mathis | What does Christ call church leaders to be and do? Like him, they labor heartily and happily, not for selfish gain, but for their people’s joy.