Products related to Biblical Figures

Not all who profess to be Christians are truly followers of Jesus Christ, regardless of the Christian language they use or the Christian activities in which they participate. These “almost Christians” try their best, struggling to do for themselves what God, in His grace, has already accomplished. In this study of Paul’s visit to Ephesus in ... Continue Reading 

When Abram’s nephew Lot was distracted and easily influenced by his surroundings, he fell captive in battle. As Alistair Begg explores Abram’s strategic pursuit and rescue, he reiterates Christ’s call to rescue the perishing of our world. Because Christians are set apart for God’s purposes, we must not allow our hearts to be ... Continue Reading 

An international ambassadorship may be far beyond our training and capabilities. As ambassadors of Christ, however, our daily task is simply to introduce others to Him. In this study of John 4, Alistair Begg teaches on the woman at the well’s simple introduction of her townspeople to the remarkable man she met—a man they came ... Continue Reading 

Despite Joseph’s forgiveness years earlier, his brothers reverted to old fears of revenge after their father Jacob’s death. In the same way, when our hearts condemn us, we may be tempted to doubt that Christ’s forgiveness was real. Our feelings can deceive us; however, as Alistair Begg assures us, a solid grasp of the ... Continue Reading 

The world claims that weakness must be avoided—but God’s Word says otherwise. In this message from Judges, Alistair Begg examines how God reduced Gideon’s sizable army to 300 men, securing victory against the Midianites by His power alone. Gideon and his troops recognized their inadequacy and poured out their hearts in praise over their ... Continue Reading 

In a world that embraces moral and cultural relativism, how are Christians supposed to live? Daniel modeled faithfulness in an alien culture—but it’s God who is the true hero of his story, teaches Alistair Begg. The same God who protected Daniel in the lions’ den moves throughout the world today, working out His plan for ... Continue Reading 

In a world that embraces moral and cultural relativism, how are Christians supposed to live? Daniel modeled faithfulness in an alien culture—but it’s God who is the true hero of his story, teaches Alistair Begg. The same God who protected Daniel in the lions’ den moves throughout the world today, working out His plan for ... Continue Reading 

In Paul’s letter to the Roman church, he urges his readers to present themselves as “living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God”- a living, lasting, and logical commitment in response to God’s mercy. Alistair Begg reminds us that Jesus held nothing back when He took our punishment on the cross so that we may be ... Continue Reading 

In Paul’s letter to the Roman church, he urges his readers to present themselves as “living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God”- a living, lasting, and logical commitment in response to God’s mercy. Alistair Begg reminds us that Jesus held nothing back when He took our punishment on the cross so that we may be ... Continue Reading 

In Romans 12:2, Paul warns readers not to be conformed to the ways of this world, but rather, to be transformed by God and conformed to the image of Christ. Alistair Begg explains that a Christian’s way of thinking changes as a result of God’s revelation of Himself. Our perspective on the world should ... Continue Reading 

In Romans 12:2, Paul warns readers not to be conformed to the ways of this world, but rather, to be transformed by God and conformed to the image of Christ. Alistair Begg explains that a Christian’s way of thinking changes as a result of God’s revelation of Himself. Our perspective on the world should ... Continue Reading 

Amos was an unremarkable man whose life was radically re-directed when God chose him to deliver a devastating message to the people of Israel. In a time of economic prosperity, religious hypocrisy, and moral degeneracy, God sent Amos to warn God’s people that His patience had run out. Alistair Begg teaches that God’s message, spoken ... Continue Reading 

With stories of men who endured in the face of persecution, terrifying dreams, and mysterious visions, the book of Daniel has intrigued readers for generations. But at the heart of this book, we don’t meet a mere man, however brave, faithful, or wise. We meet God, the King of Kings, who rules over every earthly kingdom ... Continue Reading 

With stories of men who endured in the face of persecution, terrifying dreams, and mysterious visions, the book of Daniel has intrigued readers for generations. But at the heart of this book, we don’t meet a mere man, however brave, faithful, or wise. We meet God, the King of Kings, who rules over every earthly kingdom ... Continue Reading 

With stories of men who endured in the face of persecution, terrifying dreams, and mysterious visions, the book of Daniel has intrigued readers for generations. But at the heart of this book, we don’t meet a mere man, however brave, faithful, or wise. We meet God, the King of Kings, who rules over every earthly kingdom ... Continue Reading 

With stories of men who endured in the face of persecution, terrifying dreams, and mysterious visions, the book of Daniel has intrigued readers for generations. But at the heart of this book, we don’t meet a mere man, however brave, faithful, or wise. We meet God, the King of Kings, who rules over every earthly kingdom ... Continue Reading 

With stories of men who endured in the face of persecution, terrifying dreams, and mysterious visions, the book of Daniel has intrigued readers for generations. But at the heart of this book, we don’t meet a mere man, however brave, faithful, or wise. We meet God, the King of Kings, who rules over every earthly kingdom ... Continue Reading 

With stories of men who endured in the face of persecution, terrifying dreams, and mysterious visions, the book of Daniel has intrigued readers for generations. But at the heart of this book, we don’t meet a mere man, however brave, faithful, or wise. We meet God, the King of Kings, who rules over every earthly kingdom ... Continue Reading 

After two weeks adrift on storm-tossed seas, the sailors and soldiers accompanying Paul to Rome focused on self-preservation as the threat of shipwreck became certain. In the midst of calamity and crisis, leadership was desperately needed; Paul, the unlikely prisoner, stepped up with faith and common sense. Alistair Begg assures us that just as God was with ... Continue Reading 

Moses was a remarkably self-controlled leader. When the Hebrews tested his patience one too many times, though, he lost his cool. Today’s pastors aren’t immune to anger, either—and unfortunately, a quick-tempered pastor will often cause great harm to his church, his home, and ultimately himself. In response to this sobering reality, Christopher Ash leads ... Continue Reading 

Moses was a remarkably self-controlled leader. When the Hebrews tested his patience one too many times, though, he lost his cool. Today’s pastors aren’t immune to anger, either—and unfortunately, a quick-tempered pastor will often cause great harm to his church, his home, and ultimately himself. In response to this sobering reality, Christopher Ash leads ... Continue Reading 

At Christmas gatherings, we’re often encouraged to bring our appetites. No amount of food, however, can satisfy our spiritual hunger. As Alistair Begg leads us through Mary’s song of praise, we discover that the Lord Himself is the answer for our restless hearts. Only God, through the work of His Son Jesus, can set us ... Continue Reading 

At Christmas gatherings, we’re often encouraged to bring our appetites. No amount of food, however, can satisfy our spiritual hunger. As Alistair Begg leads us through Mary’s song of praise, we discover that the Lord Himself is the answer for our restless hearts. Only God, through the work of His Son Jesus, can set us ... Continue Reading 

While historical narrative comprises over 40 percent of the Old Testament, this genre regrettably can be neglected in our study or teaching. When studying a historical passage, we can ask ourselves two helpful questions: Why has the Holy Spirit given it to us, and what are the passage’s doctrinal and practical applications? Addressing fellow pastors, Derek ... Continue Reading 

While historical narrative comprises over 40 percent of the Old Testament, this genre regrettably can be neglected in our study or teaching. When studying a historical passage, we can ask ourselves two helpful questions: Why has the Holy Spirit given it to us, and what are the passage’s doctrinal and practical applications? Addressing fellow pastors, Derek ... Continue Reading 

Our thoughts don’t always align with our words. We see this truth illustrated in Saul, who showered David with generous invitations even as he eyed him with increasing envy and hostility. Giving the appearance of civility, Saul even offered God’s anointed king his daughter’s hand in marriage while secretly plotting to eliminate him. This ... Continue Reading 

Our thoughts don’t always align with our words. We see this truth illustrated in Saul, who showered David with generous invitations even as he eyed him with increasing envy and hostility. Giving the appearance of civility, Saul even offered God’s anointed king his daughter’s hand in marriage while secretly plotting to eliminate him. This ... Continue Reading 

In many ways, Saul and David were complete opposites. The king was full of bravado, while the shepherd boy was self-effacing. Saul was filled with hate, while David was clearly blessed by the Lord. Eventually, David would become king—the very thing that Saul feared. Yet even he would succumb to pride. Contrasting the two men, Alistair ... Continue Reading 

In many ways, Saul and David were complete opposites. The king was full of bravado, while the shepherd boy was self-effacing. Saul was filled with hate, while David was clearly blessed by the Lord. Eventually, David would become king—the very thing that Saul feared. Yet even he would succumb to pride. Contrasting the two men, Alistair ... Continue Reading 

Paul’s message to Titus was clear and consistent: teach sound doctrine with dignity, integrity, and the authority given by God Himself. Titus was also to model the godly character and service he exhorted others to practice. Words, cautions Alistair Begg, are useless if they are not supported by actions. In contrast, when a pastor’s conduct ... Continue Reading 

Paul’s message to Titus was clear and consistent: teach sound doctrine with dignity, integrity, and the authority given by God Himself. Titus was also to model the godly character and service he exhorted others to practice. Words, cautions Alistair Begg, are useless if they are not supported by actions. In contrast, when a pastor’s conduct ... Continue Reading 

It can be tempting to think that our obedience to God merits His favor and earns us His intervention. Alistair Begg points out, however, that the life of Joseph proves otherwise. For all his humility and faith in God’s care, Joseph received the displeasure of Potiphar’s wife and found himself tossed into the king’s ... Continue Reading 

The breakfast beside the Sea of Galilee recorded in John 21 is a lovely picture of the care and concern of Jesus for His disciples. We aren’t told why Peter and the others decided to go fishing, but these seasoned fishermen came up empty. Jesus’ question, “Haven’t you caught any fish?” caused them to honestly ... Continue Reading 

Jeremiah was in a hopeless circumstance, thrown into a cistern by his enemies. In the prophet’s rescue, God used an unlikely person—Ebed-Melek, a slave, alien, and eunuch—in order to show that all glory belongs to Him. As Alistair Begg explains, the Cushite heard of Jeremiah’s plight, cared about what he heard, and took ... Continue Reading 

In Luke 18, we learn about Bartimaeus, a blind beggar who sought Christ’s mercy in hope that his sight could be restored. Helpless to rectify his hopeless circumstances, Bartimaeus faced a version of our own spiritual dilemma. Alistair Begg reminds us that, like the beggar, we also need Christ’s divine power to open our spiritually ... Continue Reading 

In Luke 18, we learn about Bartimaeus, a blind beggar who sought Christ’s mercy in hope that his sight could be restored. Helpless to rectify his hopeless circumstances, Bartimaeus faced a version of our own spiritual dilemma. Alistair Begg reminds us that, like the beggar, we also need Christ’s divine power to open our spiritually ... Continue Reading 

Naaman was a valiant soldier, a great man with great means—but he also had leprosy. When God used the prophet Elisha to prescribe an unusual cure, Naaman responded not with obedience, but with anger. Alistair Begg explains how Naaman’s disease is a picture of the spiritual condition we all face. By nature, we all suffer ... Continue Reading 

Personal, continual communion with God is a sure stronghold against worry. Abram demonstrated spiritual failure because he did not trust God with the daily details of his life. Alistair Begg urges us to consider the dangerous and damaging implications of lying, ceasing to pray, and failing to do as God’s word commands. When we walk the ... Continue Reading 

When Paul said farewell to the leaders of the Ephesian church, he reminded them of how he strove to live a life free of temptation and accusation so that he could present the Gospel freely. He exhorted them to be similarly vigilant so that they would be quick to recognize false believers and avoid the discord they ... Continue Reading 

Saddened by God’s impending judgment on Israel, Amos lamented over the nation that once held so much promise, but had become devoted to the routines of worship, rather than to God. Amos entreated them to once again seek God and seek good rather than evil. Similarly, Alistair Begg entreats us to avoid the delusion of a ... Continue Reading 

What does genuine faith look like in the life of a believer? In this sermon Alistair Begg breaks down several aspects of saving faith. Like the royal official’s plea for help in John 4, we must come to Christ humbly acknowledging our own helplessness and asking Christ to save us. When we do this in a ... Continue Reading 

At Mizpah, the Israelites received thunderous, dramatic deliverance from their Philistine oppressors. Samuel had once again prayed on their behalf, his access to God granted through a blood sacrifice as atonement for sin. Alistair Begg helps us realize how this moment anticipated the perfect Lamb to come and depicted God’s enduring faithfulness to His children. As ... Continue Reading 

At Mizpah, the Israelites received thunderous, dramatic deliverance from their Philistine oppressors. Samuel had once again prayed on their behalf, his access to God granted through a blood sacrifice as atonement for sin. Alistair Begg helps us realize how this moment anticipated the perfect Lamb to come and depicted God’s enduring faithfulness to His children. As ... Continue Reading 

Many of us are held captive by our fear of death. In contrast, when Jacob knew his demise was imminent, he saw it as God’s signal to make adequate preparations. Alistair Begg encourages us to follow Jacob’s example and plan our funerals now so we can ease the burden for our loved ones and leave ... Continue Reading 

Ever since the serpent tempted Eve in the Garden of Eden, humanity has been seduced by illusions of immortality. Stripping away these deceptions, the Bible reveals how we can face death with confidence and be victorious over it. Christians need not fear death, teaches Alistair Begg. Our assurance lies not in the hope of a prolonged life ... Continue Reading 

In Christ, we have been forgiven an incalculable debt—but pride can interfere with our willingness to both seek and offer forgiveness. With Joseph and Jesus as illustrations, Alistair Begg investigates a series of biblical truths that are crucial to understanding the nature of genuine forgiveness. For God’s glory, and out of gratitude for all that ... Continue Reading 

When considering Jesus’ incarnation, what comes to mind? For many of us, traditions, decorations, parties, and general busyness all but obscure the importance and beauty of Emmanuel’s arrival. In this message from Luke 2, Alistair Begg relates the story of an ordinary man to whom God gave an extraordinary privilege. In viewing Jesus through Simeon’s ... Continue Reading 

Three hundred years after the Old Testament prophets spoke of a coming Messiah, John the Baptist stepped onto the stage of human history and proclaimed the Good News of His coming. Baptizing in the desert region, John preached clearly about the need for repentance and forgiveness of sins. Alistair Begg reminds us that only those marked by ... Continue Reading 

Three hundred years after the Old Testament prophets spoke of a coming Messiah, John the Baptist stepped onto the stage of human history and proclaimed the Good News of His coming. Baptizing in the desert region, John preached clearly about the need for repentance and forgiveness of sins. Alistair Begg reminds us that only those marked by ... Continue Reading 

In the courtroom before Governor Festus and King Agrippa, Paul explained how he was transformed from Saul, the chief persecutor of Christians, to the apostle Paul, commissioned servant of Christ. Through this study from Acts 26, Alistair Begg illustrates how God calls unlikely individuals to be witnessing followers of Jesus. God’s call, he reminds us, is ... Continue Reading 

When Pharaoh asked Joseph to interpret his dreams, an important question was on his mind: What should we do when uncertainty and trouble loom large before us? God warned Joseph of a coming famine, and thus gave him the opportunity to help Egypt prepare for the tumultuous days ahead. As Alistair Begg demonstrates, we should follow Joseph ... Continue Reading 

We all have memory problems: we forget what we should remember, but dwell on what is best forgotten. In this study of Joshua 3 and 4, Alistair Begg explains that God often gives His people memorials as reminders of His faithfulness and provision. Like the Israelites who built a memorial from the stones of the Jordan River ... Continue Reading 

We all have memory problems: we forget what we should remember, but dwell on what is best forgotten. In this study of Joshua 3 and 4, Alistair Begg explains that God often gives His people memorials as reminders of His faithfulness and provision. Like the Israelites who built a memorial from the stones of the Jordan River ... Continue Reading 

Partial obedience is still disobedience. Saul learned this lesson the hard way when he failed to execute God’s judgment against the Amalekites, sparing the king and the best of the sheep and cattle. Instead of a victorious celebration, he met with Samuel’s anger and the Lord’s regret. Our responses matter to God, teaches Alistair ... Continue Reading 

Partial obedience is still disobedience. Saul learned this lesson the hard way when he failed to execute God’s judgment against the Amalekites, sparing the king and the best of the sheep and cattle. Instead of a victorious celebration, he met with Samuel’s anger and the Lord’s regret. Our responses matter to God, teaches Alistair ... Continue Reading 

God’s command was clear: Israel was supposed to destroy the Amalekites. King Saul, blinded by his own sin, failed to complete this task; seeking to justify his actions, he replaced true obedience with religious formalism. This passage stands as a warning of sin’s deceitfulness—and also the steadfastness of God and His purposes. As Alistair ... Continue Reading 

God’s command was clear: Israel was supposed to destroy the Amalekites. King Saul, blinded by his own sin, failed to complete this task; seeking to justify his actions, he replaced true obedience with religious formalism. This passage stands as a warning of sin’s deceitfulness—and also the steadfastness of God and His purposes. As Alistair ... Continue Reading 

Stepping down from his leadership role, Samuel warned Israel that in demanding a king, they’d actually rejected God. While they’d sinned greatly, though, Samuel assured the people that the Lord would not forsake them. Examining Samuel’s testimony of his legacy, Israel’s history, and God’s reliability, Alistair Begg reminds us that instead of ... Continue Reading 

Stepping down from his leadership role, Samuel warned Israel that in demanding a king, they’d actually rejected God. While they’d sinned greatly, though, Samuel assured the people that the Lord would not forsake them. Examining Samuel’s testimony of his legacy, Israel’s history, and God’s reliability, Alistair Begg reminds us that instead of ... Continue Reading 

While life’s humbling events remind us of the gravity of our sin, its encouraging ones reveal the immensity of God’s grace. We see examples of both as Alistair Begg traces Jacob’s journey from Canaan to Egypt to reunite with his long-lost son, Joseph. Although he was eager to see his child, Jacob first sought ... Continue Reading 

Throughout his writings, Luke focused on the theme of forgiveness—a theme that culminates when Jesus, suffering on the cross, asks the Father to forgive those who placed Him there. Jesus’ prayer was not a plea for God to ignore sin, Alistair Begg points out; rather, it reflected Christ’s desire for sinners to repent and receive ... Continue Reading 

Like the prophet Jeremiah, Paul was called to preach the Word of God. Preaching was fashioned into the fabric of his being; he could do nothing else. In 1 Corinthians 9, the apostle describes that his obligation to preach was not forced, but a divine compulsion, for which he expected no reward. Alistair Begg encourages anyone considering ... Continue Reading 

In the time of the prophet Jeremiah, the city of Jerusalem was besieged and desperate. Jeremiah refused to sugarcoat this grim reality. Stung by the truth, city officials tried to kill him—but Ebed-melech, making a “shining cameo” as an unlikely hero, came to the rescue, acting with courage and compassion. Alistair Begg shows that Ebed-melech is ... Continue Reading 

In difficult times, those who seek God’s refuge enjoy His favor and protection. With sin-distorted thinking, Saul was fixated on eliminating the anointed king, but David sought the Lord and was rescued from fear and his enemies. Examining four stories of deliverance, Alistair Begg reminds us that while following Jesus entails challenges and suffering, we can ... Continue Reading 

In difficult times, those who seek God’s refuge enjoy His favor and protection. With sin-distorted thinking, Saul was fixated on eliminating the anointed king, but David sought the Lord and was rescued from fear and his enemies. Examining four stories of deliverance, Alistair Begg reminds us that while following Jesus entails challenges and suffering, we can ... Continue Reading 

John the Baptist had two assignments: the first was to prepare the way for Christ, and the second was to get out of the way. In this message, Alistair Begg describes this remarkable man and his timely message. Known for his odd diet and unconventional clothing, John was sent from God to break the long silence that ... Continue Reading 

Worship should be characterized by devotion rather than desertion, faith rather than fear, and humility rather than hostility. Jesus came to Mary’s defense when she was criticized for breaking a priceless jar of ointment on the feet of Jesus and unbinding her hair to dry them. From John 12, Alistair Begg helps us understand the extravagant ... Continue Reading 

On the heels of victory against the Philistines, Saul found himself waging a new battle—a spiritual war within his own heart. His desire to vanquish enemies in his own strength led him to place a rash oath on the Israelites. This foolish decision led the people to obey manmade laws rather than God’s divine commands ... Continue Reading 

On the heels of victory against the Philistines, Saul found himself waging a new battle—a spiritual war within his own heart. His desire to vanquish enemies in his own strength led him to place a rash oath on the Israelites. This foolish decision led the people to obey manmade laws rather than God’s divine commands ... Continue Reading 

Just when it seemed Philip’s preaching was becoming useful, God sent him to the desert. Philip obeyed—and as a result, he met an Ethiopian eunuch with pressing questions about Jesus. If we believe that God directs our steps, will we view every situation as an opportunity to share the Gospel? Challenging us to make the ... Continue Reading 

Just when it seemed Philip’s preaching was becoming useful, God sent him to the desert. Philip obeyed—and as a result, he met an Ethiopian eunuch with pressing questions about Jesus. If we believe that God directs our steps, will we view every situation as an opportunity to share the Gospel? Challenging us to make the ... Continue Reading 

Do you have a personal relationship with God? Can you look to a point in time when, as a result of a personal encounter with Him you are no longer the person that you were? The Old Testament character Jacob had a vital experience of God that marked him for the rest of his life. Hear how ... Continue Reading 

In the Corinthian church, prideful boasting and eloquent religious entertainment had replaced solid biblical teaching. Paul made it clear that he did not want to shame these believers, but to warn them because he did not want to see them led astray. Alistair Begg echoes Paul’s warning and outlines eight lessons for today’s Church, noting ... Continue Reading