The Spirit’s Role in Understanding Scripture

FLOYD ROGERS

Revelation is a special kind of truth that comes directly from God. It is knowledge that people could not discover on their own. The Bible itself is this revelation — a message from God to humanity. However, there is also something called illumination. This happens when God, through His Holy Spirit, brings understanding to a person’s heart and mind as they read or hear His Word.

When a person hears or reads Scripture and suddenly feels a deep sense of clarity or joy, that is the Spirit of God at work. It’s as though a light turns on inside them, making the meaning of God’s message clear. This spiritual understanding is not something we create on our own; it is a gift from God.

For anyone to truly grasp and share God’s truth with others, it first needs to live within them. The Holy Spirit works through the truth that is already in a person’s heart. This is why it is important to fill our lives with God’s Word and be spiritually prepared.

our word is a lamp to my feet
And a light to my path.

Psalm 119:105

Southern Baptist Convention Calls for Overturn of Same-Sex Marriage Ruling, Reinforces Traditional Christian Teachings

STAFF/VOLUNTEER

At its recent annual meeting in Dallas, the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) approved a resolution asking for the repeal of the 2015 United States Supreme Court decision that legalized same-sex marriage. The resolution was one of several passed by delegates, each designed to reaffirm conservative Christian beliefs about family, gender, and marriage.

The resolution is titled “On restoring moral clarity through God’s design for gender, marriage, and the family.” It is presented as a theological statement, expressing specific views about the created order, marriage, abortion, fertility, family structure, gender identity, sexual orientation, free speech, and miscarriage. A key part of the resolution urges the rejection of court rulings that deny the biological categories of male and female.

Baptist News Global, a U.S.-based religious news outlet, reported that resolutions passed by the Convention are nonbinding. This means they are statements reflecting the beliefs of those in attendance at a particular meeting, rather than enforceable policies. However, the same report noted that there have been growing calls to treat these resolutions as tools for shaping doctrinal positions and influencing political discussions within the denomination and beyond.

Along with the resolution on same-sex marriage, the Convention also adopted statements addressing other social concerns. These included resolutions on the dangers associated with sports betting, a call to ban pornography, and a declaration against the use of abortion pills.

For Christians, especially within Southern Baptist communities, these resolutions reflect ongoing efforts to maintain traditional teachings about family and moral life. The Convention’s position on these issues continues to influence how churches under its banner address topics related to marriage, sexuality, and personal conduct.

While these resolutions do not hold legal authority, they signal the Convention’s continued commitment to specific interpretations of Christian doctrine. These positions may shape conversations in churches, schools, and other religious settings in Canada, particularly among Christians who share similar theological beliefs.

The SBC has seen a larger movement among conservative Christian groups to respond to changes in legal and cultural attitudes toward gender, marriage, and family.

The Promise of Christ Against the Antichrist’s Power

AMY TURNER

Many people today worry about the coming of the Antichrist, fearing the evil he will bring into the world, even against those who follow God. Concerns like these have spread anxiety, with some believing the Antichrist’s power will be impossible to resist. But the Bible gives a clear and powerful promise to calm those fears.

In 2 Thessalonians 2:8, it is written that the Lord Jesus will defeat the Antichrist with nothing more than the breath of his mouth, destroying him simply by his presence when he returns. No matter how strong evil may appear, it cannot stand against the power of Christ.

Believers are called to have confidence in this truth. The authority and victory of Jesus over all wickedness is certain.

The Lord is my light and my salvation;
Whom should I fear?
The Lord is the defense of my life;
Whom should I dread?

Psalm 27:1

Finding Peace in Obedience

FLOYD ROGERS

Many people have experienced moments when God made His will clear to them, yet they found reasons to ignore it. They might think, “Yes, I know that’s in the Bible, but those words were written ages ago. Surely, they don’t fit my life today.” But the truth is, God’s Word is timeless. The Bible remains His guide for how we should live — a book of instructions meant to be followed with a willing and joyful heart.

God calls us to obey Him not out of fear or reluctance, but with confidence and hope. Obedience means doing exactly what God asks, at the time He asks, and in the way He instructs. It’s a simple, yet powerful act of trust.

Each of us must consider what God has spoken through His Word that we have yet to surrender. What are you still holding onto that He’s told you to release? True peace and blessing come when we follow Him fully.

If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.

John 14:15

A thought about trusting God

FLOYD ROGERS

When life feels overwhelming, it’s easy to think everything is out of control. But if God truly controls all things, then your life is not without direction. God holds your life steady, even when it seems uncertain. Isn’t the real question whether you trust Him enough to believe He will lead you to make the right choices?

If your trust in God is complete, your main concern becomes one simple thing: is this decision part of God’s will? If the answer is yes, then you can move forward with confidence. This kind of faith brings peace, joy, and a calm heart, because you know God is guiding you.

Living this way means choosing, on purpose, to obey God no matter what might happen next. You trust Him with the outcome.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
And do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 3:5-6