1. Like the serpent on the pole, God still puts real-life things up for us to look to for salvation.
  2. Don’t get in the habit (or, if you already do it, get out of the habit) of saying, “I could never talk about these things the way my pastor does.”
  3. A “good death” and “good life” are not accomplished through personal striving but are grasped by faith in the promises of God.
  4. Finding rest in God when the “what ifs”come calling
  5. We must also address the stigma surrounding addiction within so many churches.
  6. It is of the utmost importance that pastors teach their congregation that through faith in Jesus Christ, they are fortified against the machinations of the adversary.
  7. The gospel tells me that the revelation of weakness in myself, my husband, and my son is the occasion for the revelation of God’s strength.
  8. God’s published will offers us anchorage, the anchorage of Jesus Christ, in the midst of chaos, reminding us that there is a greater purpose to our lives than the pursuit of worldly success or fleeting pleasures.
  9. If Jesus did not rise, then religion is just religion — a mere anthropological phenomenon.
  10. When properly distinguishing law and gospel in the Word of God, it is important to use the God-given gift and abilities of the imagination as your ears.
  11. Christ Jesus brings his word and presence to where you are and he is even willing to do so through the likes of your personally present pastor.