Types & Shadows in Growth Process
In the letter to the Colossians Paul noted that many of the institutions and commands revealed under the Law of Moses were, “things which are a mere shadow of what is to come; but the substance belongs to Christ” (Colossians 2:17). The same thrust is found in Hebrews 10:1 “For the Law, since it has only a shadow of the good things to come and not the very form of things”. In reference to the tabernacle in the Old Testament, the Hebrew writer notes that the Levitical priests served, “a copy and shadow of the heavenly things” (Hebrews 8:5).
Adam and Christ: Romans 5:12-21; 1 Corinthians 15:21-22, 45-49
Through Adam, sin came into the world, through Christ the forgiveness of sins came into the world (Romans 5:15). Through Adam came condemnation, through Jesus comes justification(5:18).
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Avoid Relationship Killers
Dr. John Gottman can predict with 96% accuracy within the first three minutes of a couple having a conversation whether the relationship he is watching will survive over the long-haul or not. He bases his predictions on four potentially destructive communication styles and coping mechanisms: (1) harsh startup, (2) the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, (3) flooding, and (4) body language. In this synopsis I will focus on the Four Horsemen.
The Four Horsemen are a metaphor depicting the end of times in the New Testament. They describeconquest, war, hunger, and death respectively. Dr. Gottman uses this metaphor to describe communication styles that can predict the end of a relationship.
A shot of truth goes down well when garnished with grace
Truth without love is judgement- whether given or received.
“It is the nature of the false self to save us from knowing the truth about our real selves…”
..from penetrating the deeper causes of our unhappiness, from seeing ourselves as we really are- vulnerable, afraid, terrified, and unable to let our real selves emerge.”
– Brennan Manning Abbas Child p. 37
What is Confessed Into the Light of Two or More will be Healed
James 5:16 tells us “Therefore, confess you sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed.”
The Holy Spirit is Our Healer
The Holy Spirit leads us into all truth. Though we can see with our natural eyes the Holy Spirit helps us see with our hearts.
