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Adam Dooley

Apr 18
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The Easter Substitute

By Cross, Salvation No Comments

Did you know that the Valley of the Fallen, just outside Madrid, Spain, is home to the tallest cross in the world? The impressive structure stands a remarkable 492 feet tall and can exceed winds in excess of 100 miles per hour. The cross of Jesus, though, stands even higher, rising above the vain ambitions, petty concerns, and despicable sins of our material world. Rising above the politically correct winds of naturalism, humanism, and secularism, our Savior’s cross has yet to break under the misguided whims and carnal agendas of modernity.

One of the blessings surrounding this time of year is the opportunity to revisit the familiar stories of our faith in order to celebrate their significance anew. I find in my own life, no matter how many times I read the Easter narrative, some detail always resonates with me in a fresh, meaningful way. Focusing on the unique perspective of each biblical author unveils the divine agenda behind each of the New Testament’s four gospels.

This year, Mark’s recollection of Jesus’ final week has been particularly inspiring. In his effort to portray Jesus as the unexpected king, Mark repeatedly emphasizes the substitutionary nature of our Savior’s sacrificial work. By highlighting how alone Jesus was on the cross, we get a glimpse of the magnitude and meaning of His redemptive work.

For instance, substitute followers surrounded our Lord because His disciples all fled for their lives when Jesus needed them most (Mark 14:50). Despite His previous command to take up their crosses and follow Him (Mark 8:34), the presence of Simon of Cyrene carrying the cross of our Savior is dreadful reminder that our Savior was forsaken (Mark 15:21). Likewise, after their desperation for places of honor on Jesus’ right and left hand (Mark 10:35-40), two thieves on crosses of their own replace James and John as partakers of Christ’s bitter cup (Mark 15:27) .

The greater act of substitution, though, is found in the reality that Jesus took our place on the cross by becoming sin for us (2 Cor. 5:21). Often referred to as substitutionary atonement, Mark recalls two incidents which reinforce the concept that Jesus became our scapegoat.

First, we see the glory of substitution in Pilate’s offer to set one prisoner free, resulting in the choice between Jesus and Barabbas (Mark 15:7-15). The name Barabbas means “son of a rabbi” or “son of the father.” Hidden in the oldest manuscripts of Matthew 27:16 is the revelation that this man’s first name was Jesus. In other words, his full name was Jesus Barabbas.

Thus, when standing before the crowd, Pilate was essentially asking them, “Which Jesus will you choose?” One was a known terrorist; the other was the King of a heavenly kingdom. One was a man without God; the other was God in human flesh. One was a taker of human life; the other was a giver of human life. When the crowd chooses Barabbas, a dramatic portrayal of substitution emerges.

The imprisoned one who was guilty is set free in order that he might live, while the free One who was innocent is imprisoned in order to die. Or, if you prefer, the One who was guilty of no sin took the place of the one who was guilty of great sin.

Sound familiar?

Simply put, Barabbas is a profound picture of you and me. By shedding His blood on the cross, Jesus absorbed the punishment we deserved. The theme of redemptive substitution runs throughout Scripture. “All of us like sheep have gone astray,” wrote the prophet Isaiah, “Each of us has turned to his own way; But the Lord has caused the iniquity of us all To fall on Him (Isa. 53:6).” Similarly, the Apostle Peter later wrote, “For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God . . . (1 Pet. 3:18).”

Second, Mark’s emphasis on the miracle of darkness from high noon until 3 p.m. also points to Jesus as our substitute (Mark 15:33). Just as the plague of darkness covered the land of Egypt when the first Passover lamb was sacrificed, now darkness again hovered over the earth as God’s final Passover Lamb bled and died. First century Jews rightly understood darkness as a sign of God’s judgment.

The prophet Amos predicted the moment as sign of Yahweh’s anger with His people (Amos 8:9). As the cursed One hung upon a tree, God the Father poured out His full wrath on His Son, consuming Him as a burnt offering for sin (Isa. 53:4-10). Wave upon wave of our sin fell upon the sacrificial Lamb who faced the judgment of God so that we would not need to. Though the brightness of angels lit up a dark sky at His birth, the darkness of God’s holy indignation dimmed the noon sun at Jesus’ death.

The whole scene reveals not only the ugliness of sin, but also the beauty of God’s mercy and grace. While conversations of sin sometimes grate on contemporary ears as old-fashioned and out of touch, we cannot understand the cross of our Savior without grasping why it was necessary in the first place. I am so grateful that God sent His only begotten Son to be our substitute.

Adam B. Dooley
April 18, 2025

Apr 14
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Enthusiasm Talks, But What Does it Say?

By Uncategorized No Comments

If I may ask a deeply personal question, what is your biggest failure or regret as a Christian? Was it a private sin that still causes you hidden shame? Or a public stumble that embarrasses you in front of others? Maybe it was a single act that haunts you daily? Or a pattern of disobedience that hounds you even now? All regrets in life are painful, but failing the Lord has a much deeper sting.

To illustrate, let’s learn from what was surely the most profound failure in the life of the Apostle Peter. His example is like a roadmap to help us find our way when we stray. My intent is not to throw stones, but to learn from the mistakes of one of God’s most sincere servants.

Admittedly, there is much to admire about Peter’s relationship with the Lord. Protestants are sometimes hesitant to acknowledge his influence as the leader of the apostles because of the false notion of a papacy (based upon a misinterpretation of Matt. 16:16-18). Peter was no pope, but his name is mentioned first wherever we find a record the early apostles and disciples (see Matt. 10:2; Mark 3:16; Luke 6:14; Acts 1:13). Furthermore, he was part of Jesus inner circle of three that Jesus privileged to witness the resurrection of Jarius’ daughter (Mark 5:35-43), the Mount of Transfiguration (Mark 9:2-3), the Olivet Discourse (Mark 13), and the Gethsemane prayer time (Mark 14:32-42).

Added to all of this was Peter’s unrivaled enthusiasm. Only he jumped out of a boat alone in order to walk on water with Jesus (Matt. 14:22-33) and then later to swim ashore just to be with Jesus first (John 21:7). He also insisted so vehemently that he would never deny Jesus that the other disciples felt compelled to join his fervor (Mark 14:29-31). Yet, the scathing failure that follows and the lesson that emerges teaches us that enthusiasm does not always equal maturity.

As soon as Jesus was taken away (Mark 14:53), the Bible reveals that Peter began to follow the Lord at a distance (Mark 14:54). Granted, all the other disciples had already fled for their lives (Mark 14:50). We should not miss, however, that the one who promised he would die before denying the Savior was trying to protect himself by blending in with the crowd.

Even worse, though, is Peter’s three-fold denial that contrasts Jesus’ time before the High Priest (Mark 14:66-72). What began as a cavalier dismissal of the man he identified as the Christ (Mark 8:29) ends with Peter cursing and swearing just to prove his innocence (Mark 14:71). The intensity grew as he denied the Lord before a single servant girl, then a group of bystanders, and finally many others as well. As the cock began to crow, Jesus’ trusted disciple began to weep (Mark 14:72). Peter, the rock, cracked under the pressure.

And so do we.

God calls us to take up our cross and follow Him (Mark 8:34-35), but few of us are as eager to do so as we often communicate. In fact, like Peter, we are much quicker to deny our Lord than to deny ourselves. Turning the gospel into a means of self-fulfillment and self-preservation signals that we aren’t all that interested in self-denial. The expectation that we will deny dreams that dishonor the Lord, actions that disobey the Word, and attitudes that dismiss the Spirit often falls by the wayside.

In the aftermath, we cover our immaturity with an extra dose of enthusiasm. We boast of faithfulness that we have not lived. We celebrate victories that we never actually won. And we guarantee sacrifices that we don’t ever expect to pay. Peter’s shortcomings remind us that it’s not how loud you shout on Sunday that matters, it’s how straight you walk on Monday that’s important.

I’m not suggesting that enthusiasm is bad (far from it!), but that it simply is not an accurate measurement of real commitment to Christ. Emotional displays often lack substance. Grandiose promises can be void of genuine commitment. Worship experiences do not always translate into life impact.

All the warning signs were there that Peter was not as committed as he portrayed himself to be. Just hours before the cross in the Garden of Gethsemane Jesus invited him to pray. Nevertheless, in what became an accurate prophecy of his upcoming denial, three times the Lord found His compromised disciple sleeping on the job. In other words, when Jesus needed him the most, Peter hadn’t been there for Him once before.

Denying ourselves, not enthusiasm, is the true mark of maturity. Doing so means that we refuse to assert our rights when what we want violates Scripture. It means that we follow what God teaches rather than our heart or our feelings. We should boldly share our faith without calculating how others might perceive us. We should prize our convictions over our comforts. And we should carve out time in our busy lives for Bible reading and prayer.

Thankfully, Peter not only admonishes us through his mistakes, but also in his restoration. Even if you have denied Lord, it is never too late to come back to Him and be part of His kingdom. Peter certainly did. Three times he fell asleep on Christ. Three times he denied his Savior. But three times he also expressed his love for Jesus.

Do you remember Jesus’ appearance to Peter and the twelve after His resurrection (John 21)? It must have gotten his attention when Jesus asked Peter, do you love me? The second time probably rattled him. But the third time I am certain Peter realized that this was his opportunity to make right what he did so poorly before. By restoring his beloved Apostle, Jesus proved to him, and us, that our past failures need not define our present faithfulness.

Adam B. Dooley
April 14, 2025

Apr 04
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Knowing the Will of God

By Faithfulness, Peace, Priorities, Providence, Will of God No Comments

“Where should I go to college?”

“Who should I marry?”

“Should I take the promotion?”

“How do I choose the right church?”

All of these questions are a variation of the most common question I’ve gotten over the years as a pastor. “How can I know God’s will for my life?” For many, nothing is more mysterious and elusive than discerning how God wants them to live. The consternation and confusion caused by this dilemma can be exhausting.

But what If I told you that it doesn’t have to be that difficult? What if I told you that you that the will of God is not nearly as complicated as we often make it? If you could have confidence that each of your decisions honored the Lord, would you be interested?

Thankfully, tucked away in Romans 12:2 is the wonderful statement that “you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” The key, though, is that we learn to think biblically and spiritually. The context of these words reveals two lessons about discerning the will of God.

First, God expects us to approach all of life with a posture of submission. In other words, when we understand all that Christ has done for us, we should gladly yield to whatever He chooses for our lives as it becomes apparent. Think of it as putting your “yes” on the table even before you know what God desires.

The Apostle Paul wrote, Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship (Rom. 12:1). The image of a living and holy sacrifice hearkens back to the Old Testament blood sacrifices offered by the nation of Israel. The idea here, though, is not that we should die for the Lord, but that we should die to ourselves each day as we seek to live in obedience.

According to the text, this is the only reasonable response when we understand the mercy of God (explained in the first 11 chapters of Romans) in our lives. God’s grace is never a license to live however we choose. Instead, His love and grace compel us to submit ourselves gladly to the will of God.

Second, we must learn to operate within the parameters of Scripture if we are serious about pleasing our Savior. Unfortunately, we often think very little about the will of God until we need to make a what we classify as a BIG decision. Things like where to live, whom to marry, what career to pursue, and so on usually drive us to consider seeking the Lord’s direction. We should not expect God to reveal new direction to us, however, if we are blatantly ignoring what He has already revealed in Scripture. If we refuse to obey what is already clear in God’s Word, why should we expect Him to guide us in new ways?

To help us, the Apostle Paul offers two guardrails (one negative, one positive): Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind (Rom. 12:2a). Defensively, we should not conform to this world. The word “world” refers to a worldview that is dominated by Satan. Proving the will of God requires resisting the fallen way of thinking that plagues our culture. With so much homemade religion in the world today, there is tremendous pressure to approve what is blatantly contrary to Scripture and, frankly, common sense. Neither slick propaganda campaigns nor selfish emotional appeals will ever justify disobedience, though. If it contradicts Scripture, it is not the will of God.

Proactively, the renewal of our minds is what transforms us. Stated differently, the Holy Spirit changes us when we learn to think correctly. How is that possible? Again, the Bible provides the parameters for sound, godly thoughts and decisions. Refusing to fill our minds with filth prepares to us to read and understand the Scripture as God desires. When we resist sin daily and fill our minds with the Bible continually, the profound result is not that we find the will of God but that we prove the will of God. To use Paul’s language, we prove that which is good and acceptable and perfect (Rom. 12:2b). The idea is that we are free to make spiritual decisions with confidence, knowing what will honor the Lord!

Let’s put it all together. If my driving ambition is to honor Jesus (present your bodies); If there is no unconfessed sin in my life (do not be conformed); and if my mind is sanctified with Scripture (the renewing of your mind), I am free to make decisions, big or small, with confidence that God is leading me. Discerning God’s will is not a mystical experience dependent upon signs from heaven before we can obey. Instead, the daily practice of submission to God coupled with the renewal of our minds through Scripture makes the will of God readily apparent.

Adam B. Dooley
April 4, 2025

Mar 27
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The Art of Finishing Well

By Christian Living, Discipleship, Holiness, Righteousness No Comments

The year was 1949. CIA operative Douglas Mackiernan fled for the border of Tibet as Mao Tse-Sung’s communist army swept through China. Though the national boundary was a treacherous 1200 miles away, getting there was the only hope for survival. For seven months he endured the elements. First, he needed to cross the desert. Going without water for three days at one point left Doug and his companions nearly dead. A seeping spring saved their lives.

Next, Mackiernan faced the Himalayas in the dead of winter. While traversing the jagged terrain at 16,000 feet, the air was so thin and cold that speaking was simply too painful. Speaking only through hand signals, Doug and his comrades pressed on. The piercing winds threatened frostbite. Mounds of snow obscured the path. Losing his horse made the trek more difficult. But Mackiernan pressed on, never veering too far off the centuries old path marked by large piles of stone.

What were these mounds? They were above ground tombs for those who endeavored to make the arduous journey before. With the ground frozen solid beneath them, local residents did not attempt to dig graves. They simply pulled the deceased to one side of the trial and heaped piles of rocks over their bodies. These markers to the left and right of the path formed a natural map for those brave enough to keep pressing forward. Each grave was a visible reminder that despite your progress along the trail you could not let your guard down until you finished.

The same is true for Christians today. No matter how long we serve the Lord, how faithful we’ve been, or how much distance we’ve covered, we can never let our guard down until we get to heaven. Finishing the race of faith well is much more important than how we begin. As we age and mature in our walks with God our temptations may change, but they never go away. Remaining faithful to the Lord until the very end requires much discipline and intentionality.

For as long as I can remember the Old Testament character Gideon has fascinated me. Living during one of the most tumultuous periods in the history of Israel, some might refer to this unassuming man as a coward. The first time we meet him he is hiding in a winepress from Israel’s oppressors, the Midianites (Judges 6:11). Through a dramatic turn of events, God empowered Gideon to confront the false prophets of his nation and defeat the enemies’ army (Judges 6-8). His acts were heroic, and his humility was refreshing.

When it was all over, Gideon was so popular that his countrymen attempted to make him king over Israel (Judges 8:22). The honor was misguided, though, because at this point in their history God was the only King over His chosen people. Thankfully, Gideon resisted the opportunity, at least with his words (Judges 8:23). Forty years of peace ensued as the entire nation reaped the rewards of faithfulness.

I wish the story ended there. Yet, as a testimony of its veracity, the Bible reveals that that Gideon’s practice did not mirror his profession. He divided the spoils from war like a king (Judges 8:24-26). He took multiple wives and concubines for himself, just like a king (Judges 8:29-32). He even named his son Abimelech, which means my father is king (Judges 8:31). In other words, despite what he said, Gideon lived as if he was king in Israel. God’s faithful servant stumbled at the finish line and, consequently, led the nation back to the same apostacy he worked so hard to overcome (Judges 8:33).

Unfortunately, this biblical plot is often far more common than we care to admit. Do you remember Douglas Mackiernan? After seven months he finally made it to the Tibetan border. The week prior he radioed the US embassy requesting that they inform border guards of his arrival. When he was finally close enough to see the crossing between the two nations, Doug’s exhaustion turned to joy and he began running ferociously toward freedom. When he was only 100 yards away, tragedy struck as shots rang out.

Doug Mackiernan was hit, and he fell dead on the path. The guards never received his message, and they mistook him for a renegade bandit. Soon, they pulled his body to the side of trail and covered it with stones. The man who labored a lifetime for his country became another boundary on the path. His ending was a tragic warning for those that followed in search of freedom (Adapted from Steve Farrar, Gettin’ There, 118).

Chances are you have heard a similar story. Maybe about a man who lived with integrity for most of his life, until he didn’t. Or a woman who was the epitome of faithfulness, until she wasn’t. Stumbling at the finish line is so familiar that we all have examples to share of families ruined, relationships broken, lives scarred, and faith shattered. We know far too well the devastation that comes when we don’t finish well.

So, let’s learn from the mistakes of those who admonish us through their pain. You and I do not have to be another spiritual casualty in the kingdom of God if we will heed the warnings of those whose mistakes instruct us. The freedom we find in Christ will be worth the discipline finishing well requires.

Adam B. Dooley
March 27, 2025

Mar 19
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My Favorite Verse

By Future, God, Peace, Providence, Trials No Comments

My Favorite Verse

The name Abe Anglin probably means nothing to you, but from the fourth grade on I knew he just had to be my sixth-grade teacher. He wasn’t much over 6 feet tall, but to me he was a peculiar, giant of a man because he had a bald head with a large scar on the side due to brain surgery. Little did I know that I would not only be a student in his class, but I would also learn lessons from this man that still shape who I am today. In the providence of God, our families quickly became friends during my last year of elementary school. As a result, “Mr. A” as we called him, soon invited me to a church function where he would share his testimony.

As I listened to the story of how his brain tumor was successfully removed, he boasted only in the faithfulness of the Lord and the grace he received. I still remember how I felt when he began sharing his favorite verse of Scripture. “And we know,” he said, “that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28).” Instantly, I knew those words were special, and I soon decided that this would be my favorite verse too. What I did not realize, though, was just how important those words would be to me a few short months later.

Weeks before Christmas, while I was a student in his class, Mr. Anglin’s tumor came back. Before his second surgery, we sat outside my classroom on the floor after school. “Adam, I’m not afraid to die,” Abe said slowly. I shook my head, not immediately sensing the gravity of the moment. “Let me say it again. I will probably die from this tumor, but I want you to know I am not afraid.” His words overwhelmed me. I believed the gospel, but I had never met anyone with such bold faith. “If you will live for Christ,” he added, “you won’t fear that day either.”  The conversation is still so vivid to me.

By the time I reached the eighth grade, Mr. Anglin was still battling cancer. After having his tumor removed a third time, it became apparent that he would indeed die. At the tender age of 26, he was gone far too soon. Yet, no matter how unbearable his malady became, the words of Romans 8:28 always gave this remarkable man hope no matter how grim things appeared. I didn’t fully understand it then, and frankly, I’m not sure I grasp it now. I am certain, though, that this powerful verse of Scripture is a steady anchor when trials beat against the shore of our lives. Even death cannot unravel the hope found within these profound words.

If I may state the promise succinctly, God is always working for your good, even when you can’t see it. In every circumstance, in every struggle, in every heartache life throws your way, there is nowhere you can go and nothing that can happen to you when God is not actively working to bring about good. It may not always be obvious to you, especially during tumultuous seasons of misfortune, but the Bible teaches that God is out before you, guiding the steps and rhythms of your life.

“And we know . . .” conveys a sense of confidence and assurance. Though our world is constantly changing, these words represent an unchanging promise from our eternal Lord. “God causes all things . . .” communicates the comprehensive scope of our Savior’s commitment to His people. God is actively weaving the incidental and monumental events of our lives together for His particular purposes. Not some things or most things, but ALL things. God uses every moment of your life to work toward His ultimate good for you.

Every enjoyable and wholesome circumstance you savor fits perfectly into God’s creative intentions for your life. He uses all the moments that give us overflowing gratitude far beyond the immediate satisfaction we can see and celebrate. In addition, the word ALL includes the less desirable realities of life as well. Bad things, tragic things, depressing things, shocking things, and even evil things have a sense of design because of God’s redemptive purpose for His children. NOTHING comes across the pages of your life that God doesn’t utilize for His greater plan. EVERYTHINGin your life leads to good when you know Jesus.

I would be remiss, however, without acknowledging that this wonderful promise is conditional. God limits His reassurance “ . . . to those who love God, to those who are called.”  When the Bible says WE know, it is referring to those who know and love God; or those who are born again. This promise, as most others, applies only to those who belong to Jesus. By turning to Christ in repentance and faith, we can live with the assurance that our Heavenly Father is actively working for our good.

And why is the Lord so faithful to His own? The next verse explains that God’s ultimate goal is to conform us to the image of His Son (Rom. 8:29). Our happiness and comfort are secondary to this primary agenda. The silver lining behind every burden is not that our circumstances will change, but that our character and commitment will transform instead.

Adam B. Dooley
March 19, 2025

Mar 15
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The Authority We Need (and Resist)

By Authority, God, Sovereignty, Uncategorized No Comments

We live in an age where people resist and even resent the idea of authority. A rugged individualism that says you cannot tell me what to do governs our thinking. Misguided moral relativism whispers the lie that what’s true for you may not be true for me. Added to this is an increased skepticism which insists that we should never believe or trust the strong and powerful.

Recently in our home, one of my precious daughters whom I adore and for whom I would do anything, looked up at me and said, “You can’t tell me what to do, Daddy!” No sooner than my frustration began to rise, the Holy Spirit immediately convicted me, suggesting that I respond the same way to Him.

Indeed. From a young age our fallen nature prods us that all authority is bad and should be resisted. Admittedly, we can all point to examples of abuse that stems from unchecked power. Authoritarianism frightens us, and for good reason. Each of us has seen the strong take advantage of the weak and the empowered cheat to keep the upper hand. Additionally, most personally know the misery that comes when a person is forced do what he does not want to do.

Yet, misusages like these notwithstanding, God has woven healthy authority into every part of our world. Humanity has authority over this earth (Gen. 1:26-28). Government has authority over its citizens (Rom. 13:1-7). Pastors have authority over their congregations (Heb. 13:17). Husbands have authority over wives (Eph. 5:22-33). Parents have authority over children (Eph. 6:1-4). Employers have authority over employees (Eph. 6:5-8). Most importantly of all, though, Jesus Christ has authority over each of us (1 Cor. 11:3).

The gospel of Mark goes to great lengths to demonstrate Christ’s sovereign dominion over all creation. After shaming the chief priests and scribes into silence for their efforts to entrap Him over John the Baptist (Mark 11:27-33), Jesus offered a parable to expose these religious leaders who rejected His authority (Mark 12:1-12). The underlying lesson that remains for us today is that God’s condemnation awaits those who resist His Son, who has every right to act with the unlimited authority of heaven.

Next, the Pharisees and Herodians present Jesus with the conundrum of paying taxes to Ceasar, specifically the unpopular poll tax reserved for residents of Judea and Samaria (Mark 12:14). Though the sum of the charge was small (one denarius), the imposition was greatly offensive to Jewish loyalists. If the Lord instructed them to pay the tax, His own people would have rebelled against Him. But, if He gave Jews permission to disobey the state’s demand, Roman soldiers would have arrested Him immediately.

Refusing to fall for their deceit, Jesus held up a Roman coin and asked whose likeness appeared on it (Mark 12:15-16). With Ceasar’s face on every denarius, the caption would have read, “Tiberius Ceasar, Augustus, son of divine Augustus.” Because ancients believed that coins belonged to whoever’s picture was on them, Jesus wisely instructed onlookers to render unto Ceasar that which belongs to Ceasar (Mark 12:17a). His next statement, however, ought to arrest our attention.

“Render unto God, the things that are God’s (Mark 12:17b). But what exactly was Jesus referring to with these words? If we return to Ceasar that which has his image, what exactly bears the image of God? The answer is as old as creation itself. The first chapter of Genesis reveals the Trinitarian agenda of heaven, “Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness . . . (Gen. 1:26a).” Scripture then adds, “God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them (Gen. 1:27).”

The idea is that every human soul is God’s property because each uniquely bears His image as Creator. Fourth century theologian Augustine went as far to instruct that we should render “to Ceasar his coins and to God your very selves.” How far does Christ’s authority extend over your life? Over every single part of it.

With this mind, we can better understand why Jesus insisted the following Him requires dying to ourselves and taking up our crosses daily (Matt. 16:24-26). Practically, the authority of our Lord means that He determines what we believe about right and wrong, how we define success, who we spend our time with, and where we plant our lives. God unapologetically desires to dictate how you live, love others, spend your money, treat your spouse, forgive your enemies, put in a day’s work, and enjoy your spare time.

Jesus has no interest in having part of your life; He lays claim on your entire life. God wants your whole heart, soul, mind and strength (Mark 12:29-30). He has every right to expect you to FOLLOW Him and LOVE Him. If you do, you will find His authority is good and life-giving, as He leads us down the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake (Ps. 23:3).

Adam B. Dooley
March 15, 2025

Mar 04
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Should Christians Fast?

By Prayer, Sanctification No Comments

Mention the word “fast” today and the conversation might turn to the speed of light, the stride of a cheetah, or someone’s internet connection. Refusing to eat, however, is usually the furthest thing from our minds. In his book, The Celebration of Discipline, Richard Foster says that in a land filled with Golden Arches and pizza temples it seems strange to talk about fasting.

Surprisingly, though, Scripture has much to say about the spiritual benefits of taking a break from food. The practice was so familiar to Jewish believers that they incorporated civic fasts into their New Year celebrations, Day of Atonement observances, and national tragedy commemorations. Though the concept is somewhat foreign to us, it was commonplace in ancient Israel. Fasting appears 75 times in the Bible, with 44 and 31 verses in the Old and New Testaments respectively.

You’ll find examples of fasts that lasted for three, seven, fourteen, twenty-one, and forty days in God’s Word, but the most common was from sunrise to sundown. Moses, David, Daniel, Esther, Nehemiah, and Ezra fasted under the Old Covenant. Likewise, John the Baptist, Paul, Barnabas, and Jesus Himself fasted though the Law was fulfilled. The early church continued seeking the Lord in this unique way after Jesus ascended back to heaven (Acts 13:2-3).

Christians throughout history, such as Martin Luther, Jonathan Edwards, and Charles Spurgeon, have followed suit as well. America’s founding fathers on the Mayflower spent an entire day fasting and praying before coming ashore. Interestingly, Jesus introduces the subject by assuming that believers of all ages would continue the spiritual custom. He does not say, “If you fast . . .,” but “Whenever you fast . . .” while discussing the subject in His Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 6:16).

So, what are the benefits of fasting today?

First, fasting helps us to humble ourselves before the Lord. Many have suggested that abstaining from television, social media, or internet surfing can be helpful, and I don’t disagree. But nothing reminds us of our constant need of and dependence upon the Lord like refraining from food for a period of time. King David identified fasting as his method for humbling his soul as he sought God. Hunger pains are a physical reminder for us to pray and lay our burdens before our Savior.

Second, fasting enables us to repent of sin and overcome weaknesses. Pride, greed, malice, and self-centeredness seem to melt away when we take time to focus on God apart from the busyness of life. When accompanied with weeping and mourning, fasting is a powerful means of sanctification that breaks the cycle of returning to temptations that plague us (Joel 2:12). Just as the people of Nineveh forsook their transgressions through a national fast and lament, we, too, ought to express genuine repentance through intentional restraint from eating.

Third, fasting is also an appropriate method for discerning the will of God. The Apostle Paul went from city to city appointing elders, but only after fasting and praying (Acts 14:23). Identifying God’s direction and pursuing it with diligence often only comes after the focus that accompanies this spiritual discipline. If you have a big decision ahead, you should definitely consider a fast.

Finally, fasting fosters greater intimacy with the Lord, unleashing His presence in our lives. Replacing time typically devoted to food preparation and consumption with increased focus on prayer and fellowship with God invites Him into our lives in a unique way. No wonder a widow privileged to see the baby Jesus in the temple prioritized fasting just as she did prayer (Luke 2:37). Anyone longing to experience God in fresh way will benefit from this sacred act of devotion.

How we fast, though, is just as important as our commitment to do so. To avoid hypocrisy, Jesus implored Christians to avoid drawing attention to themselves by altering their appearance (Matt. 6:16). Pharisees were notorious for fashioning old clothing, covering their heads in ashes, and wearing painful looks on their faces so that others would notice or ask if they were fasting. Such self-promotion defeats the purpose of seeking God in the first place.

Thus, Jesus instructs genuine believers to anoint their heads and wash their faces in order to avoid being noticed by others (Matt. 6:16-17). Make themselves presentable, in other words. Those who trumpet and parade their good works lose their reward as soon as the attention and applause of men stops.

Practically, consulting with your physician before an extended fast is always a good idea. In addition, a number of great resources, such as Ronnie Floyd’s The Supernatural Power of Prayer and Fasting, offer helpful guidance about the ins and outs of what to expect as you proceed. Be sure to devote extra time for prayer and Scripture reading during your fast. Why not start preparing today?

Adam B. Dooley
March 4, 2025

Feb 25
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Is Christian Persecution Real?

By Faithfulness, Persecution, Trials No Comments

A recent sermon series through the Beatitudes struck a personal chord with me that I hope echoes throughout our congregation for months into the future. Speaking about life in the family of God, Jesus offers eight specific blessings for His followers that are admittedly counterintuitive. Perhaps the strangest of them all was His final promise, “Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven (Matt. 5:10).”

Reading these words left me asking, “Is Christian persecution real today?” If you listen to much western media you might get the impression that Christians do more persecuting than they receive. Progressive spin commonly casts evangelical believers among the oppressors rather than the oppressed. But is it true?

An honest assessment reveals that Christians remain the single most persecuted group of people in the world. Currently, 14% of Christ followers across the globe, or one out of every seven, suffer high levels of persecution. In Africa that number is as high as 20%, or one out of every five Christians. Across Asia, the numbers are even worse, with 29% of believers (two out of every five) suffering for their faith.

According to the Open Doors watchlist, 2024 witnessed nearly 4500 Christians martyred, nearly 8000 churches or properties attacked, nearly 5000 detained or imprisoned, over 209,000 forced from their homes, and persecuted believers in excess of 380 million. Tragically, Islamic rebels in the Congo beheaded 70 Christians in a church last week in an effort to turn the largely Christian region into an Islamic caliphate.

Despite claims to the contrary, Christianity faces more persecution right now than at any other point in history. The first 1900 years of church history recorded 25 million Christian martyrs who suffered for following Jesus. From 1900-2000, a total of 45 million died for their faith. How are we to understand reports like these, particularly in our American context?

Thankfully, Jesus offered a three-fold definition of persecution to guide our thinking. He says, “Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me (Matt. 5:11).” These descriptions are important because a prevalent lie in the United States is that since people are not dying here, Christian persecution does not exist. According to Jesus, such thinking is misguided.

Notice the three carefully chosen words and phrases which define the suffering of saints. Insults refer to openly mocking or shaming people of faith. The same word later appeared to describe Jesus’ suffering on the cross (Matt. 27:38-44). Persecution bears the idea of running after or pursuing with an intent to abuse violently or to prosecute thoroughly. Falsely speaking evil refers to slanderous accusations void of any truth. Neither time nor space will permit me to list the plethora of examples demonstrating these abuses today, but they should be obvious to us all.

At this point, you might be wondering why anyone would treat other human beings in such horrific ways. Two primary reasons for persecution emerge when we carefully examine the words of Jesus. First, Christians will sometimes suffer for the sake of righteousness (Matt. 5:10). The description refers to godly character and conduct. One unspoken modern reality is that genuine righteousness is often an irritant to unbelievers. The godly conduct laid out in the Sermon on the Mount, for example, is often received as an indictment of wickedness.

To help us grasp the principle, the Apostle Peter listed numerous vices that, when resisted, cause offense to those in darkness. He warns that those outside the family of God will pursue a course of sensuality, lusts, drunkenness, carousing, drinking parties and abominable idolatries (1 Peter 4:3). Then he explains, “In all this, they are surprised that you do not run with them into the same excesses of dissipation, and they malign you (1 Peter 4:4).”

Have you ever wondered why any talk of sexual purity is mocked incessantly today? Or why resistance to the gay lifestyle is labeled as hate mongering? Is it curious to you that getting drunk, wild parties, and perverted language are commonly celebrated as the good life? And that calling out sin is chided as old-fashioned, or even harmful to society? Do you find it strange that the mere presence of Christians, or the articulation of historical Christian beliefs, is so frequently mocked, derided, and even identified as a threat? This is what Jesus categorized as the sake of righteousness.

Second, Jesus revealed that some will persecute believers simply because of His name. After revealing the previous listed forms of persecution, He admits that all are because of Me (Matt. 5:11). People then, as now, were fine with Jesus being a good, moral teacher, a miracle worker, and even a prophet who spoke truth. The moment He claimed to be God, however, His enemies sought to kill Him and any who chose to follow Him (Matt. 10:21-22).

Similar claims today can lead to just as much trouble. Agreeing that Jesus is a way is fine, as long as you don’t insist that He is THE WAY. Purporting that Jesus told the truth is not offensive, unless you assert that He is THE TRUTH. Crediting Jesus as the founder of Christianity won’t cause consternation, until you maintain that He is THE ONLY WAY TO HEAVEN. Having a Jesus who is one among other gods will be acceptable to the masses,but those bold enough to declare Him as THE ONLY TRUE GOD will face certain backlash.

Christian persecution is not only real, but also much more prominent that we might initially think. So, what is the silver lining? Joyfully, Jesus assures us that the kingdom of heaven belongs to those have suffered for their faith (Matt. 5:10). Your reward will be great because the faithful have always endured the scorn of this world (Matt. 5:12).

Adam B. Dooley
February 25, 2025

Feb 18
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What Is Winter Trying To Tell Us?

By Salvation, Sovereignty, Trials No Comments

“I am so ready for spring.”
“Do you think school will be canceled this week?”
“Maybe we will have one more chance to go sledding.”

Reactions like these are not uncommon during the winter months. In the span of 24 hours, I have heard all three comments, along with the accompanying lament and enthusiasm depending on the perspective. As I write this column, our area is bracing for what may be the second big snowstorm of the season. Most adults are anxious for warmer weather while our children are looking to score at least a few more days home from school due to snow.

But what if I told you that winter holds much greater significance than stoking daydreams of summer vacation or the playfulness of childhood? Surprisingly, the Bible teaches that every winter has a predictable message that we would be wise to heed. So, what can we learn from a wintery mix of snow and ice? What spiritual truths do cold feet and runny noses point to?

First, the predictability of winter reminds us that God is in control. The constancy of creation points back to the faithfulness and power of our Creator. An often overlooked promise in Scripture is the monotony of our seasons. After the worldwide flood in the days of Noah subsided, God promised to never destroy the earth the same way again (Gen. 9:11). Even before the covenant sign of a rainbow (Gen. 9:12-17), God insisted, “While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease (Gen. 8:22).”

In this sense, every season, including winter, points back to the faithfulness of God to keep His promise. Prerequisite to this understanding is the fact that the Lord not only controls the seasons, but that He also utilizes each to do His bidding.

A recent study leading our congregation through the narrative of Job reminded me again that the God of the Bible is not only bigger, but also more intentional than we often realize. The book’s poetic expressions communicate the literal strength of the Lord. During the winter months, He instructs the snow and rain to fall, creates ice with His breath, forces beasts into hibernation, and directs both northern and southern storms (Job 37:6-10). He stores the snow and hail for times of distress, war, and battle (Job 38:22-23). He gives birth to both ice and frost in order to imprison what is below (Job 28:29-30).

No wonder the psalmist marveled, “He sends forth His command to the earth; His word runs very swiftly. He gives snow like wool; He scatters the frost like ashes. He casts forth His ice as fragments; Who can stand before His cold? He sends forth His word and melts them; He causes His wind to blow and the waters to flow (Psalm 147:15-28).” The severity of winter points back to the magnitude of our God.

Second, the beauty of winter reminds us of the purity God provides. Two times in Scripture the Bible compares the cleansing of God’s forgiveness to the flawless scenes of winter. Despite having sins that are like scarlet, God promises to make them as white as snow (Isa. 1:18). Likewise, King David’s longing for purity left him begging God to wash him so that He could be clean like snow (Psa. 51:7). Every falling snowflake and every white blanket that wraps the earth is a picture of grace, reminding us God’s forgiving embrace through His Son, Jesus Christ. Ours is a God who makes all things new as the old passes away (2 Cor. 5:17).

Finally, the burdens of winter remind us that our greatest trials are temporary. Despite the beauties of the cold season, the hardships it often brings make it an appropriate metaphor for the trials of life. Blistering temperatures, icy roads, and power outages leave us looking forward to the arrival of spring each year. The Song of Solomon celebrates the end of winter as an opportunity for a new beginning (Song Sol. 2:11-13). The subsiding of harsh weather reassures us that our difficulties will soon pass, hopefully bearing the fruit of endurance (James 1:2-4).

Though it seldom feels like it at the time, most of the adversities we face are only temporary inconveniences. The majority of our problems are not permanent experiences. Chances are, you WILL come out on the other side of whatever you are facing. Even the heaviest burdens that can sometimes last a lifetime are temporary against the backdrop of eternity (Rom. 8:18). Winter doesn’t last forever, and neither do our troubles.

Adam B. Dooley
February 18, 2025

Feb 12
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Lessons on the Hardwood

By Church, Faithfulness, Future, Pastor, Sanctification No Comments

For as long as I can remember, I would always trade the pigskin for a round ball without hesitation. Maybe it’s my Kentucky roots. Perhaps it stems from growing up during the Michael Jordan era. Whatever the reason, though, I fell in love with basketball as a boy, partly because I did not need anyone else to play. I lost count how many times I won the Final Four and the NBA Finals just before dinner in my childhood backyard.

Unfortunately, my playing days never rivaled those imaginary successes, but to this day I marvel over the superior athleticism, team strategy, and breakneck speed that takes place on 94 feet of hardwood. With College March Madness just around the corner, high school basketball is winding down and regional tournament brackets are starting to take shape.

The Trinity Christian Academy Lions are unknown to most readers outside the state of Tennessee, but here in our little corner of the world, they are finishing up a historical season that leaves us undefeated in our district for the first time. With two of my sons on the roster, you can understand my excitement. As I watch my kids play the sport I love, I cannot help but to relive part of my childhood and reappreciate so many life lessons I learned from my coaches and teammates. Long before I went to seminary, basketball taught me so much about life and ministry.

Take, for example, the principle that everyone has a role to play. The beauty of a team sport is that no single athlete can succeed alone. This year, a young man named Braydon Waller became the all-time leading scorer at our school, earning him well deserved accolades. Yet, underestimating the impact of less visible contributors on our team is a sure recipe for failure. Because our entire roster learned to function as a single unit, each member now enjoys the team’s success. Doing so requires each player to accept the unique role that most benefits the team.

Who is more important, the shooter who finishes the fast-break or the rebounder who started it? Who is more valuable, the assist leader or the game’s highest scorer? Who is more vital, the defender who keeps points off the scoreboard or the hot hand who adds them? Does the teammate who leads in steals contribute more to victory than the athlete who never turns the ball over? Is the guy who cuts down the lane wide-open more essential than the individual who sets his pick? Can good players strategize without a wise coach?

In a similar way, albeit with a slightly different analogy, the Bible describes the church as the body of Christ made up of various members with different functions (Rom. 12:4-5). Despite the variety, however, we should never attach the value of an individual to their designated assignment within a Christian community (1 Cor. 12:14-26). Some water, others plant, but God works mightily through every Christ follower to accomplish His work (1 Cor. 3:4-7). Ultimately, each believer is invaluable solely because they make up the roster of faith.

Another important lesson basketball has taught me is that everyone can’t be the coach. Throughout our season at Trinity, I have marveled over the stellar leadership of Coach Dexter Williams. Our team plays suffocating, full-court defense, shoots the three like a college team, and runs like a well-oiled machine, largely because we have a coach who won’t settle for less. His ability to get the most out of every player is inspiring. Like my sons, I also benefitted from great coaching growing up. This past week I learned that my former high school coach, Tony Cox, will soon be inducted into the Madison County Sports Hall of Fame in Richmond, Kentucky. His approach was different, but I still benefit from his investment in my life.

We should not overlook, however, that even the greatest coaches receive their share of criticism. You always have parents who would do it differently, most likely to benefit their children. It’s easy for critics to question calls after the buzzer sounds or to change strategies with the benefit of hindsight. When the pressure of the moment subsides, everyone is great coach. But few can handle the constant pressure leading on the sideline brings.

Pastors face similar challenges. Everyone has opinions about how the church should function, but everyone cannot, and should not, be a pastor.  The unique role of leading people spiritually is a special calling assigned by God Himself (Eph. 4:11-12). In addition to the required character qualities (1 Tim. 3:1-7), the Bible plainly states that not all should desire to teach the Word because those who do will face stricter judgment (James 3:1). For these reasons, Scripture admonishes believers to submit to the guidance of godly spiritual leaders without the constant grief of second-guessing them (Heb. 13:7, 17).

Finally, basketball taught me that yesterday’s victories don’t guarantee success today. I don’t yet know how the season will end for my Trinity Lions, but I am certain that the achievements of this season do not promise any success going forward. Staying hungry and continuing to reach for the next milestone is key for any successful team.

The stakes are higher in real life, but the priority remains the same. In order to take hold of what was ahead, the Apostle Paul insisted that he chose to forget what was behind him (Phil. 3:12-14). Letting go of the past is the key to continued growth and sanctification.

Yesterday’s sin often intimidates us, making it difficult for us to accept God’s forgiveness and live in victory. Previous suffering sometimes angers us, birthing a root of bitterness and suspicion in our soul. Perhaps most challenging of all, former successes can leave us wishing for our glory days, blinding us to what God desires to do in our lives today. Unshackling ourselves from the past is essential for living by God’s design in the present and future.

Adam B. Dooley
February 12, 2025

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