Skip to content

City Life Starter

Start with the Word

  • Home
  • Devotional
  • About Starter
  • Starter Contributors
  • Publications
  • Prior Devotional Series
  • Jesus, the Evangelist

    Jesus, the Evangelist

    By Scott Fiddler The Word: John 4:1-9 1Therefore when the Lord knew that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus was making and baptizing more disciples than John 2(although Jesus Himself was not baptizing, but His disciples were), 3He left Judea and went away again into Galilee. 4And He had to pass through Samaria. 5So He…

    G. Scott Fiddler

    June 24, 2019
    Devotion
    john 4, Scott Fiddler, Series: Gospel of John
  • “He must increase, but I must…”

    “He must increase, but I must…”

    By Jason Scherzer The Word John 3:27-36 (ESV) 27 John answered, “A person cannot receive even one thing unless it is given him from heaven. 28 You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ, but I have been sent before him.’ 29 The one who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices…

    clcstarter

    June 22, 2019
    Devotion
    Jason Scherzer, john 3, Series: Gospel of John
  • How about John the Baptist?

    How about John the Baptist?

    By Aisha Darwesh The Word: John 3:22-26 22 Then Jesus and his disciples went out for a length of time into the Judean countryside where they baptized the people. 23 At this time John was still baptizing people at Aenon, near Salim, where there was plenty of water. And the people kept coming for John…

    aishadarwesh

    June 21, 2019
    Devotion
    Aisha Darwesh, john 3, Series: Gospel of John
  • Light versus Darkness

    Light versus Darkness

    By Blesson Selvanesan The Word: John 3:18-21 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. 19 And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than…

    C. S. Blesson

    June 20, 2019
    Devotion
    Chellakkan Blesson, john 3, Series: Gospel of John
  • John 3:16

    John 3:16

    By Joslyn Jayaram John 3:16-17 New International Version (NIV) 16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Wow, I have the amazing honor…

    clcstarter

    June 19, 2019
    Devotion
    john 3, Joslyn Jayaram, Series: Gospel of John
  • Son of Man

    Son of Man

    By Stefan Johnsson John 3: 9-15 9 “How can this be?” Nicodemus asked. 10 “You are Israel’s teacher,” said Jesus, “and do you not understand these things? 11 Very truly I tell you, we speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen, but still you people do not accept our…

    Stefan Johnsson

    June 18, 2019
    Devotion
    daniel 7, john 3, numbers 21, son of man, Stefan Johnsson
  • On Evangelism and Soteriology

    On Evangelism and Soteriology

    By Scott Fiddler The Word: John 3:1-3 1Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews; 2this man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher; for no one can do these signs that You do…

    G. Scott Fiddler

    June 17, 2019
    Devotion
    john 3, nicodemus, Scott Fiddler, Series: Gospel of John
  • Have You Ever Wonder About Those Signs?

    Have You Ever Wonder About Those Signs?

    By Jason Scherzer What are Signs? The Word John 4:46-50 (NASB) 46 Therefore He came again to Cana of Galilee where He had made the water wine. And there was a royal official whose son was sick at Capernaum. 47 When he heard that Jesus had come out of Judea into Galilee, he went to Him and was imploring Him to come down and…

    clcstarter

    June 8, 2019
    Devotion
    Jason Scherzer, john 11, john 19, john 20, john 4, Series: Gospel of John, signs, zechariah 12
  • God’s Heart for Human Hearts

    God’s Heart for Human Hearts

    By Aisha Darwesh The Word: John 2:23-25 (TPT) 23 While Jesus was at the Passover Feast , the number of his followers began to grow, and many gave their allegiance to him because of all the miraculous signs they had seen him doing! 24 But Jesus did not yet entrust himself to them, because he…

    aishadarwesh

    June 7, 2019
    Devotion
    Aisha Darwesh, john 2, Series: Gospel of John
  • The Three Day Sign

    The Three Day Sign

    By Blesson Selvanesan The Word: John 2:18-21 18 So the Jews said to him, “What sign do you show us for doing these things?” 19 Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” 20 The Jews then said, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will you raise…

    C. S. Blesson

    June 6, 2019
    Devotion
    Chellakkan Blesson, john 2, Series: Gospel of John
  • Untitled post 9202

    By Joslyn Jayaram I. The Word: John 2:13-17 English Standard Version (ESV) Jesus Cleanses the Temple 13 The Passover of the Jews was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. 14 In the temple he found those who were selling oxen and sheep and pigeons, and the money-changers sitting there. 15 And making a whip of cords, he drove them all…

    clcstarter

    June 5, 2019
    Devotion
    john 2, Joslyn Jayaram, Series: Gospel of John
  • Good Wine

    Good Wine

    By Stefan Johnsson John 2:9-12 (ESV) 9 When the master of the feast tasted the water now become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the master of the feast called the bridegroom 10 and said to him, “Everyone serves the good wine first,…

    Stefan Johnsson

    June 4, 2019
    Devotion
    john 2, Series: Gospel of John, Stefan Johnsson
  • The Third Day

    The Third Day

    By Scott Fiddler The Word: John 2:1-8 1 On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there; 2and both Jesus and His disciples were invited to the wedding. 3When the wine ran out, the mother of Jesus *said to Him, “They have no wine.” 4And…

    G. Scott Fiddler

    June 3, 2019
    Devotion
    john 2, Scott Fiddler, Series: Gospel of John
  • The Master’s Plan

    The Master’s Plan

    By Jason Scherzer The Word: John 1:43-51 (NKJV) Philip and Nathanael 43 The following day Jesus wanted to go to Galilee, and He found Philip and said to him, “Follow Me.” 44 Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. 45 Philip found Nathanael and said to him, “We have found Him of whom Moses in the law, and also the prophets, wrote—Jesus of…

    clcstarter

    June 1, 2019
    Devotion
    Jason Scherzer, John 1, Series: Gospel of John
  • The Lamb of God

    The Lamb of God

    By Aisha Darwesh The Word: John 1:29-42 Behold, the Lamb of God 29 The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 30 This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks before me, because…

    aishadarwesh

    May 31, 2019
    Devotion
    Aisha Darwesh, John 1, Series: Gospel of John
  • The voice for The WORD

    The voice for The WORD

    By Blesson C Selvanesan The Word: John 1:19-28 19 And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” 20 He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.” 21 And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I…

    C. S. Blesson

    May 30, 2019
    Devotion
    Chellakkan Blesson, John 1, Series: Gospel of John
  • The Word

    The Word

    By Joslyn Jayaram The Word Becomes Flesh 14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. 15 John bore witness of Him and cried out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He…

    clcstarter

    May 29, 2019
    Devotion
    John 1, Joslyn Jayaram, Series: Gospel of John
  • The New Birthright

    The New Birthright

    By Stefan Johnsson John 1:6-13 6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. 8 He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light. 9 The true light, which gives…

    Stefan Johnsson

    May 28, 2019
    Devotion
    John 1, Series: Gospel of John, Stefan Johnsson
  • “In the Beginning”

    “In the Beginning”

    By Ji Yun ”In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. 4 In Him was life, and the life was the light…

    Pastor Ji

    May 27, 2019
    Devotion
    genesis 1, Ji Yun, John 1, Series: Gospel of John
  • Radio Silence

    Radio Silence

    By Ji Yun Silence. Darkness. Hopelessness. Disappointment. Confusion. Feast of Passover. Sabbath. Jesus has been crucified and buried in the tomb, large stone was placed in front of the tomb, and Roman soldiers were appointed to guard the tomb. In this joyous day of celebration where Jews were celebrating the Passover feast, Jesus’ disciples and…

    Pastor Ji

    April 20, 2019
    Devotion
    Easter, Ji Yun, journey to the cross, waiting
  • Crushed

    Crushed

    By Aisha Darwesh The Word: But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; The punishment for our peace was on Him, And by His wounds we are healed. –Isaiah 53:5 During this Passover/Passion week, I’ve been given this unique opportunity to share from my perspective: “What does the cross mean…

    aishadarwesh

    April 19, 2019
    Devotion
    Aisha Darwesh, Easter, isaiah 53, journey to the cross
  • The Night of Last Supper/Passover Meal

    The Night of Last Supper/Passover Meal

    By Ji Yun Thursday is the day that Jesus and His disciples partook the Passover Meal. Why understanding the Passover, one of the feasts that ordained by God to Israelites, is critical to understand why Jesus would partake this meal before he was crucified and killed. According to the Gospel of John, one of the…

    Pastor Ji

    April 18, 2019
    Devotion
    Easter, Ji Yun, journey to the cross, Passover
  • The Third Day

    The Third Day

    The Third day It was during a Thursday night team meeting that the dreadful thing happened. The disciples knew something was going to happen but had no idea what to expect. Everything seemed beyond imagination and happened so quickly. They had no idea what was about to happen. Judas Iscariot already planned what to do…

    clcstarter

    April 17, 2019
    Devotion
    Easter, journey to the cross, the third day, unknown author
  • The Cross Means Everything.

    The Cross Means Everything.

    By Stefan Johnsson What Does the Cross Mean for Me? I can tell you first and foremost that the cross is more than a symbol. Though, many in our society view it as only this. People tattoo crosses on their body, wear crosses around their necks, and pray to crosses of various sizes and shapes.…

    Stefan Johnsson

    April 16, 2019
    Devotion
    colossians 1, Easter, journey to the cross, Stefan Johnsson
  • What Does Easter Means To Me? To a Trial Lawyer?

    What Does Easter Means To Me? To a Trial Lawyer?

    By Scott Fiddler This is Easter week. If you are wondering what the big deal about Easter is you are probably not alone. As Easter has become secularized and commercialized, particularly in America, the true meaning of Easter has become obscured. But Easter is my favorite day of the year, more special and meaningful for…

    G. Scott Fiddler

    April 15, 2019
    Devotion
    Easter, journey to the cross, Scott Fiddler
  • Repentance: More Than A Religious Term.

    By Heather Mattingly Repentance & Baptism What is the first picture that comes to your mind when you hear the word repentance? And what is the first picture that comes to your mind when you hear the word baptism? Our Every Nation Purple Book explains that the connotation of these words is generally negative –…

    clcstarter

    February 19, 2019
    Devotion
    baptism, Heather Yu, psalm 27, repentance
  • Do You Know What You Are Saying?

    By Stefan Johnsson Jesus is LORD. Many of us use this phrase with frequency and we do not realize the implications of what we say. What does being Lord refer to? Merriam-Webster defines lord as: “a ruler by hereditary right or preeminence to whom service and obedience are due.” To whom service and obedience are…

    Stefan Johnsson

    February 12, 2019
    Devotion
    C.S. Lewis, Jesus, lordship, Stefan Johnsson
  • Way to Heaven

    By Scott Fiddler The Word: Ephesians 2:8-9 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; 9 not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. On Salvation It’s what I thought before I became a Christian, and it is…

    G. Scott Fiddler

    February 5, 2019
    Devotion
    ephesians 2, salvation, Scott Fiddler
  • Matthew 1 & 2

    Matthew 1 & 2

    Contributor’s Corner By Eric Stephens I wish that God would do something about the political situation in our nation.  I wish that He would raise up leaders who fear Him… men and women of conviction who will not compromise for the sake of their legacy.  The depressive climate of our nation has gone on long…

    Pastor Ji

    December 25, 2018
    Devotion
  • Matthew 27 & 28

    Matthew 27 & 28

    MATTHEW 27 Jesus Handed Over to Pontius Pilate When morning came, all the chief priests and elders of the people plotted against Jesus to put Him to death. 2 And when they had bound Him, they led Him away and delivered Him to [a]Pontius Pilate the governor. Judas Hangs Himself 3 Then Judas, His betrayer, seeing that He had been condemned,…

    Pastor Ji

    December 24, 2018
    Devotion
  • Matthew 25 & 26

    Matthew 25 & 26

    MATTHEW 25 The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins “Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish. 3 Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, 4 but the wise took oil in their vessels…

    Pastor Ji

    December 22, 2018
    Devotion
  • Matthew 23 & 24

    Matthew 23 & 24

    MATTHEW 23 Woe to the Scribes and Pharisees Then Jesus spoke to the multitudes and to His disciples, 2 saying: “The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. 3 Therefore whatever they tell you [a]to observe, that observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do. 4 For they bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and…

    Pastor Ji

    December 21, 2018
    Devotion
  • Matthew 21 & 22

    Matthew 21 & 22

    Contributor’s Corner By Blesson Selvanesan Jesus and His Authority Blesson C. Selvanesan Today’s reading passage is from Matthew chapters 21 and 22. In these two chapters, we can see the authority of Jesus in full display and how religious people around him struggled to explain and hated His authority. Although Jesus was born in a…

    Pastor Ji

    December 20, 2018
    Devotion
  • Matthew 19 & 20

    Matthew 19 & 20

    Contributor’s Corner By Heather Mattingly The WORD: Gospel of Matthew, Chapters 19-20: Be prepared to chew on extra-large helpings of God’s Word today! In these rich chapters 19 & 20 of Matthew’s gospel, our Lord addresses marriage, how to attain perfection in God’s sight, how to achieve greatness in God’s sight, and how to receive…

    Pastor Ji

    December 19, 2018
    Devotion
  • Matthew 17 & 18

    Matthew 17 & 18

    Contributor’s Corner By Stefan Johnsson What, I wondered, I could take out from Matthew 17-18 that would be helpful for the devotional this week? We can all will pull out something from what Jesus says, and these chapters are full of great parables and short teachings. For me, what I felt like God wanted me…

    Pastor Ji

    December 18, 2018
    Devotion
  • Matthew 15 & 16

    Matthew 15 & 16

    MATTHEW 15 Defilement Comes from Within Then the scribes and Pharisees who were from Jerusalem came to Jesus, saying, 2 “Why do Your disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? For they do not wash their hands when they eat bread.” 3 He answered and said to them, “Why do you also transgress the commandment of God because of your…

    Pastor Ji

    December 17, 2018
    Devotion
  • Matthew 13 & 14

    Matthew 13 & 14

    MATTHEW 13 The Parable of the Sower On the same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the sea. 2 And great multitudes were gathered together to Him, so that He got into a boat and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore. 3 Then He spoke many things to them in parables, saying: “Behold, a…

    Pastor Ji

    December 15, 2018
    Devotion
  • Matthew 11 & 12

    Matthew 11 & 12

    MATTHEW 11 John the Baptist Sends Messengers to Jesus Now it came to pass, when Jesus finished commanding His twelve disciples, that He departed from there to teach and to preach in their cities. 2 And when John had heard in prison about the works of Christ, he [a]sent two of his disciples 3 and said to Him, “Are You the Coming…

    Pastor Ji

    December 14, 2018
    Devotion
  • Matthew 9 & 10

    Matthew 9 & 10

    MATTHEW 9 Jesus Forgives and Heals a Paralytic So He got into a boat, crossed over, and came to His own city. 2 Then behold, they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you.” 3 And at once some of…

    Pastor Ji

    December 13, 2018
    Devotion
  • Matthew 7 & 8

    Matthew 7 & 8

    Contributor’s Corner By Heather Mattingly There is so much for us to sink our teeth into within these two treasure-filled chapters of Matthew! Please read through the chapters below, and there are some nuggets within for you to find. Enjoy! Matthew 7    “Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you…

    Pastor Ji

    December 12, 2018
    Devotion
  • Matthew 5 & 6

    Matthew 5 & 6

    Contributor’s Corner By Stefan Johnsson There are few speeches in history that brings a meaning which resonates beyond the present and eclipses the time and place in which it was meant for. Only a few words can bring meaning to the speech and people will remember the historical significance. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke the…

    Pastor Ji

    December 11, 2018
    Devotion
  • Matthew 3 & 4

    Matthew 3 & 4

    MATTHEW 3 John the Baptist Prepares the Way In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, 2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” 3 For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying: “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; Make His…

    Pastor Ji

    December 10, 2018
    Devotion
  • Devotional for November 2nd, 2018

    By Aisha Darwesh The Word: Proverbs 9:8-10 Rebuke a wise man, and he will love you. Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; Teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One…

    aishadarwesh

    November 2, 2018
    Devotion
    Aisha Darwesh, James 3, proverbs 9, science, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for November 1st, 2018

    By Aisha Darwesh The Word: Psalm 8:3-4 3 When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, The moon and the stars, which You have ordained, 4 What is man that You are mindful of him, And the son of man that You visit him? Proverbs 25:2 2 It is the glory of God…

    aishadarwesh

    November 1, 2018
    Devotion
    Aisha Darwesh, proverbs 25, psalm 8, science, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for October 31st, 2018

    By Heather Mattingly The WORD: Hebrews 11:1 “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Jeremiah 29:13 “you will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” This past week, City Life Church heard from an incredible panel about science and God.…

    clcstarter

    October 31, 2018
    Devotion
    Heather Yu, hebrews 11, jeremiah 29, science, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for October 30th, 2018

    By Stefan Johnsson Stephen F. Meyer once said, “Science done right, points towards God.” I firmly believe this statement and it resonates with my own life. At a young age, while living in Sweden, my teacher told my parents that I was forced into Christianity and that her goal was to get me out of…

    Stefan Johnsson

    October 30, 2018
    Devotion
    science, Sermon Series The Gospel And, Stefan Johnsson, Stephen F. Meyer
  • Devotional for October 27th, 2018

    I. The Word 1 Peter 3:13-16 (NIV) Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give…

    clcstarter

    October 27, 2018
    Devotion
    1 peter 3, isaiah 1, Jason Scherzer, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for October 24th, 2018

    By Blesson Selvenesan Do you have to check out your brain to be a Christian? I remember seeing a cartoon where people were entering a church with their brains in their hand. They are handing it for safekeeping at the entrance and entering into the church without their brains. Obviously, the cartoonist wants to portray…

    C. S. Blesson

    October 25, 2018
    Devotion
    Chellakkan Blesson, science, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for October 24th, 2018

    By Heather Mattingly The WORD: Genesis 1:1-2 “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.” Hebrews 11:1-3 “Now faith is the substance of things…

    clcstarter

    October 24, 2018
    Devotion
    genesis 1, Heather Yu, hebrews 11, psalm 147, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for October 23rd, 2018

    By Stefan Johnsson Psalm 8 1 Lord, our Lord,     how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory     in the heavens. 2 Through the praise of children and infants     you have established a stronghold against your enemies,     to silence the foe and the avenger. 3 When I consider your heavens,     the work of your fingers, the…

    Stefan Johnsson

    October 23, 2018
    Devotion
    Philip Yancey, psalm 8, Sermon Series The Gospel And, Stefan Johnsson
  • Devotional for October 22nd, 2018

    By Scott Fiddler The Word: 2 Peter 1:16-18 16For we did not follow cleverly devised tales when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty. 17For when He received honor and glory from God the Father, such an utterance as this was made…

    G. Scott Fiddler

    October 22, 2018
    Devotion
    2 peter 1, Scott Fiddler, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for October 20th, 2018

    By Jason Scherzer The Word Psalm 18:3 I called to the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and I have been saved from my enemies.   Psalm 18:16-21 He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my…

    clcstarter

    October 20, 2018
    Devotion
    Jason Scherzer, psalm 18, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for October 16th, 2018

    By Stefan Johnsson 2 Thessalonians 2:1-4 (NIV) The Man of Lawlessness 2 Concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered to him, we ask you, brothers and sisters, 2 not to become easily unsettled or alarmed by the teaching allegedly from us—whether by a prophecy or by word of mouth or…

    Stefan Johnsson

    October 16, 2018
    Devotion
    2 thessalonians 2, revelation 22, romans 13, Sermon Series The Gospel And, Stefan Johnsson
  • Devotional for October 15th, 2018

    By Scott Fiddler While we should never compromise our ability to make disciples over politics, Christians are called to be salt and light in the world. And, just as Jesus promised, the kingdom of God has been leaven in the world since Jesus planted the flag of the Kingdom during His earthly ministry. The Kingdom…

    G. Scott Fiddler

    October 15, 2018
    Devotion
    abortion, Scott Fiddler, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for October 13th, 2018

    By Jason Scherzer The Word: Romans 13:1-5 Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring…

    clcstarter

    October 13, 2018
    Devotion
    Jason Scherzer, romans 13, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for October 12th, 2018

    By Aisha Darwesh The Word: Deuteronomy 1:9-18 The Appointment of Leaders 9 At that time I said to you, “You are too heavy a burden for me to carry alone. 10 The Lord your God has increased your numbers so that today you are as numerous as the stars in the sky. 11 May the…

    aishadarwesh

    October 12, 2018
    Devotion
    Aisha Darwesh, deuteronomy 1, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for October 10th, 2018

    By Heather Mattingly The WORD: Romans 13:1-4 “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgement. For rulers are not a…

    clcstarter

    October 10, 2018
    Devotion
    1 peter 2, Heather Yu, proverbs 21, romans 13, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for October 9th, 2018

    By Stefan Johnsson Romans 12:2 (NIV) Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Sometimes we live in a box, not of our own making, but what…

    Stefan Johnsson

    October 9, 2018
    Devotion
    romans 12, Sermon Series The Gospel And, Stefan Johnsson
  • Devotional for October 8th, 2018

    By Scott Fiddler The Word: Mark 12:13-17 13        Then they sent some of the Pharisees and Herodians to Him in order to trap Him in a statement. 14        They came and said to Him, “Teacher, we know that You are truthful and defer to no one; for You are not partial to any, but teach the…

    G. Scott Fiddler

    October 8, 2018
    Devotion
    mark 12, Scott Fiddler, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for October 6th, 2018

    The Word Ruth 1:15-16 (NIV) 15 “Look,” said Naomi, “your sister-in-law is going back to her people and her gods. Go back with her.”  16 But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people…

    clcstarter

    October 6, 2018
    Devotion
    gender roles, Jason Scherzer, Psalm 85, ruth 1, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for October 5th, 2018

    By Aisha Darwesh The Word: Job 32:8 But there is a spirit in man: and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding. Additional Reading: Genesis 37; 39-41 Today, as we continue to explore the intricacies of gender, I would like to highlight the unique ability of men, which is to be visionaries in God’s…

    aishadarwesh

    October 5, 2018
    Devotion
    Aisha Darwesh, genesis 37, job 32, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for October 4th, 2018

    By Blesson Selvanesan There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28. In Christ, all have their worth and place. In this verse, Paul says male and female are one in Christ. They are worth the…

    C. S. Blesson

    October 4, 2018
    Devotion
    Chellakkan Blesson, galatians 3, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for October 3rd, 2018

    By Heather Mattingly The WORD: Joshua 15: 15-19 “Then [Caleb] went up from there to the inhabitants of Debir (formerly the name of Debir was Kirjath Sepher). And Caleb said, ‘He who attacks Kirjath Sepher and takes it, to him I will give Achsah my daughter as wife.’ So Othniel the son of Kenaz, the…

    clcstarter

    October 3, 2018
    Devotion
    gender roles, Heather Yu, joshua 15, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for October 2nd, 2018

    By Stefan Johnsson I believe a word that Kacee Pate spoke last Sunday that stayed with me is when she said that women are not told to submit to all people, the Bible only mentions to the husband. As we see in 1 Peter 3:1. Though, as a single man, I feel that speaking on…

    Stefan Johnsson

    October 2, 2018
    Devotion
    gender roles, Sermon Series The Gospel And, Stefan Johnsson
  • Devotional for October 1st, 2018

    “God of heaven stands in stark opposition to our culture’s objectification of women.”

    G. Scott Fiddler

    October 1, 2018
    Devotion
    1 timothy 5, gender roles, Scott Fiddler, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • TGA: Gender

    By Jason Scherzer Ephesians 4:7-8 7 But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. 8 This is why it says: “When he ascended on high,     he took many captives     and gave gifts to his people.” Ephesians 5:21; 5:25-26 21 Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. 25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and…

    clcstarter

    September 29, 2018
    Devotion
    ephesians 4, ephesians 5, gender roles, Jason Scherzer, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • TGA: Gender

    By Aisha Darwesh The Word: 1 Peter 3:1-7 (The Passion Translation) And now let me speak to the wives. Be devoted to your own husbands, so that even if some of them do not obey the Word of God, your kind conduct may win them over without you saying a thing. 2 For when they…

    aishadarwesh

    September 28, 2018
    Devotion
    1 peter 3, Aisha Darwesh, gender roles, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • TGA: Gender

    By Blesson Selvanesan So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. (Genesis 1:27) The scripture is clear that God created male and female in the image of God. Both sexes were created to play a complementary role and not a competing…

    C. S. Blesson

    September 27, 2018
    Devotion
    Chellakkan Blesson, gender roles, genesis 1, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • TGA: Gender

    By Heather Mattingly The WORD: Genesis 2:7, 15 “And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being……Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it.” Genesis…

    clcstarter

    September 26, 2018
    Devotion
    gender roles, genesis 2, Heather Yu, john 20, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • TGA: Gender

    Ephesians 5:25 -Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself for up her. 2 Timothy 3:6-7 For among them are those who creep into households and capture weak women, burdened with sins and led astray by various passions, always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth.…

    Stefan Johnsson

    September 25, 2018
    Devotion
    2 timothy 3, ephesians 5, gender roles, Sermon Series The Gospel And, Stefan Johnsson
  • TGA: Gender

    By Scott Fiddler Ji asked us to write on gender this week. As the writer who is responsible for Monday’s post, I am like  Jose Altuve: I am not expected to hit a home run but just to get on base. Those who follow later and have the advantage of having seen what was written…

    G. Scott Fiddler

    September 24, 2018
    Devotion
    gender roles, Scott Fiddler, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich

    By Ji Yun I have never heard anyone who said, “I love peanut butter sandwich.” Maybe you are one of those few folks who prefer eating peanut butter alone, without adding anything.  The majority of those who have fully experienced the perfect mix of peanut butter and jelly sandwich (the one you see above is…

    Pastor Ji

    September 23, 2018
    Devotion
    Brett McCracken, gender roles, Ji Yun, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for September 22nd, 2018

    I. The Word: Ephesians 3:7-12 7 I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power. 8 Although I am less than the least of all the Lord’s people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the boundless riches of Christ, 9…

    clcstarter

    September 22, 2018
    Devotion
    ephesians 3, Jason Scherzer, Race, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for September 21st, 2018

    The Word: Mark 7:24-30 A Gentile Shows Her Faith 24 From there He arose and went to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And He entered a house and wanted no one to know it, but He could not be hidden. 25 For a woman whose young daughter had an unclean spirit heard about Him,…

    aishadarwesh

    September 21, 2018
    Devotion
    Aisha Darwesh, mark 7, Race, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for September 19th, 2018

    So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. Genesis 1: 27. The purpose of creating humans is to replicate the image of God. Humans were created by God in His own image, God’s own reflection! Do we really see God’s image…

    C. S. Blesson

    September 20, 2018
    Devotion
    Chellakkan Blesson, genesis 1, Race, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for September 19th, 2018

    The WORD: Acts 17:26 “And He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth….” Galatians 3:28 “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Revelation 7:9 “After this I looked,…

    clcstarter

    September 19, 2018
    Devotion
    acts 17, galatians 3, Heather Yu, Race, revelation 7, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for September 18th, 2018

    Luke 9:51-56 (NIV) Samaritan Opposition 51 As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem. 52 And he sent messengers on ahead, who went into a Samaritan village to get things ready for him; 53 but the people there did not welcome him, because he was…

    Stefan Johnsson

    September 18, 2018
    Devotion
    luke 9, Race, Sermon Series The Gospel And, Stefan Johnsson
  • Devotional for September 17th, 2018

    The Word: I John 4:20 If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for the one who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen. By Scott Fiddler When God created man, He created him in the image of God.…

    G. Scott Fiddler

    September 17, 2018
    Devotion
    1 john 4, Scott Fiddler, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • TGA: Race

    I. The Word: Jonah 3:4-10 On the day Jonah entered the city, he shouted to the crowds: “Forty days from now Nineveh will be destroyed!” The people of Nineveh believed God’s message, and from the greatest to the least, they declared a fast and put on burlap to show their sorrow. When the king of Nineveh…

    clcstarter

    September 14, 2018
    Devotion
    Jason Scherzer, jonah 3, jonah 4, Race, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Devotional for September 14th, 2018

    I. The Word: 19 Even though I am a free man with no master, I have become a slave to all people to bring many to Christ. 20 When I was with the Jews, I lived like a Jew to bring the Jews to Christ. When I was with those who follow the Jewish law,…

    aishadarwesh

    September 14, 2018
    Devotion
    1 corinthians 9, Aisha Darwesh, Race, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • TGA: Race

    By Dr. Blesson Selvenesan I grew up in India and my experience is totally different from my American brothers and sisters. I was naïve and did not understand the intricacies of racism. My parents taught me to be resilient, tough yet kind. I have read and heard about the racism and how it affected my…

    C. S. Blesson

    September 13, 2018
    Devotion
    Chellakkan Blesson, Race, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • TGA: Race

    By Heather Mattingly “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35) “By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.” (1 John 3:16) Webster’s definition of racism is…

    clcstarter

    September 12, 2018
    Devotion
    1 john 3, Heather Yu, john 13, Race, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • TGA: Race

    By Stefan Johnsson There is no superior race. As Peter expresses in Acts 10 when speaking to Cornelius, the Roman centurion, “God does not show favoritism”. This we have to remember. Jesus came to die for all people, no matter the race, color of skin, or background. Jesus fulfilled the old covenant and created a…

    Stefan Johnsson

    September 11, 2018
    Devotion
    Race, Sermon Series The Gospel And, Stefan Johnsson
  • TGA: Race

    By Scott Fiddler In 1988, I was in law school, and Pat Robertson ran for President. My church, made up mostly of college students and young professionals, were avid supporters and young and idealistic enough to imagine the possibility of a true Evangelical, baptized-in-the-Holy Spirit, President in the Oval Office. Robertson’s campaign encouraged us to…

    G. Scott Fiddler

    September 10, 2018
    Devotion
    Race, Scott Fiddler, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • TGA: Race

    “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness.” Genesis 1:26 “He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.” Romans 8:29 “and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who…

    Pastor Ji

    September 9, 2018
    Devotion
    colossians 3, genesis 1, Ji Yun, romans 8, Sermon Series The Gospel And
  • Reflection

    By Aisha Darwesh The Word: 1 Corinthians 13 4 Love endures with patience and serenity, love is kind and thoughtful, and is not jealous or envious; love does not brag and is not proud or arrogant. 5 It is not rude; it is not self-seeking, it is not provoked [nor overly sensitive and easily angered];…

    aishadarwesh

    August 24, 2018
    Devotion
    Aisha Darwesh, reflection, Series on 1 Corinthians
  • Reflection

    “Faith should be like an aroma that disperses and influences others.”

    C. S. Blesson

    August 23, 2018
    Devotion
    Chellakkan Blesson, reflection, Series on 1 Corinthians
  • Reflection

    By Heather Mattingly The WORD: 1 Corinthians 4:20 (NKJV) “For the kingdom of God is not in word but in power.” Questions: What are your thoughts on this verse? What are your thoughts about your own story? And the person you used to be before you met Jesus and who you are today? Do you see…

    clcstarter

    August 22, 2018
    Devotion
    Heather Yu, reflection, Series on 1 Corinthians
  • Reflection

    By Stefan Johnsson Writing on the first book of Corinthians has been a great reflection and reminder to me about how God works through imperfect people. It is a constant reminder that we need each other, we need counsel and guidance from those who walked the walk before us. One of Paul’s main points that…

    Stefan Johnsson

    August 21, 2018
    Devotion
    reflection, Series on 1 Corinthians, Stefan Johnsson
  • Reflection

    By Ji Yun We began our journey over 12 weeks ago, in hope of better understanding God’s Word through studying Paul’s letter to the Corinthians.  I hope you have enjoyed this journey as much as our contributors and you also found their writing convicting but also encouraging.  There were times when we, as the contributors…

    Pastor Ji

    August 19, 2018
    Devotion
    Ji Yun, reflection, Series on 1 Corinthians
  • Devotional for August 18th, 2018

    I. The Word: 1 Corinthians 16:21-24 21 I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. 22 If anyone has no love for the Lord, let him be accursed. Our Lord, come! 23 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you. 24 My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen. II. Reflection Questions:…

    clcstarter

    August 18, 2018
    Devotion
    1 corinthians 16, Jason Scherzer, Series on 1 Corinthians
  • Devotional for August 17th, 2018

    I. The Word: 1 Corinthians 16:19-21 19 The churches here in the province of Asia send greetings in the Lord, as do Aquila and Priscilla and all the others who gather in their home for church meetings. 20 All the brothers and sisters here send greetings to you. Greet each other with a sacred kiss.…

    aishadarwesh

    August 17, 2018
    Devotion
    1 corinthians 16, Aisha Darwesh, Series on 1 Corinthians
  • Devotional for August 16th, 2018

    The Word (1 Corinthian 16:15-18) 15 Now I urge you, brothers – you know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints— 16 be subject to such as these, and to every fellow worker and laborer. 17 I rejoice at…

    C. S. Blesson

    August 16, 2018
    Devotion
    1 corinthians 16, Chellakkan Blesson, Series on 1 Corinthians
  • Devotional for August 15th, 2018

    The WORD: 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (NKJV) “Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love.” By Heather Mattingly These two verses begin the concluding sentences of Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, and Paul is direct with his words. Your concluding remarks are like a Farewell…

    clcstarter

    August 15, 2018
    Devotion
    1 corinthians 16, Heather Yu, Series on 1 Corinthians
  • Devotional for August 11th, 2018

    I. The Word – 1 Corinthians 15:50-58 (ESV) 50 I tell you this, brothers: flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. 51 Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 in a moment, in the twinkling…

    clcstarter

    August 11, 2018
    Devotion
    1 corinthians 15, death, Jason Scherzer, Series on 1 Corinthians
  • Devotional for August 10th, 2018

    I. The Word: 1 Corinthians 15:35-49 35 But someone may ask, “How will the dead be raised? What kind of bodies will they have?” 36 What a foolish question! When you put a seed into the ground, it doesn’t grow into a plant unless it dies first. 37 And what you put in the ground…

    aishadarwesh

    August 10, 2018
    Devotion
    1 corinthians 15, Aisha Darwesh, Series on 1 Corinthians
  • Devotional for August 9th, 2018

    The Word (1 Corinthian 15:29-34) 29 Otherwise, what do people mean by being baptized on behalf of the dead? If the dead are not raised at all, why are people baptized on their behalf? 30 Why are we in danger every hour? 31 I protest, brothers, by my pride in you, which I have in…

    C. S. Blesson

    August 9, 2018
    Devotion
    1 corinthians 15, Chellakkan Blesson, Series on 1 Corinthians
  • Devotional for August 8th, 2018

    The WORD: 1 Corinthians 15:20-28 (NIV) 20 But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. 21 For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. 22 For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. 23 But…

    clcstarter

    August 8, 2018
    Devotion
    1 corinthians 15, Heather Yu, resurrection, Series on 1 Corinthians
  • Devotional for August 7th, 2018

    I. The Word: 1 Corinthians 15:12-19 (NIV) The Resurrection of the Dead 12 But if it is preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13 If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been…

    Stefan Johnsson

    August 7, 2018
    Devotion
    1 corinthians 15, logic, resurrection, Series on 1 Corinthians, Stefan Johnsson
Previous Page
1 … 11 12 13 14 15 … 18
Next Page

About StARTER

Bible based devotionals that will help you go beyond Sunday in your daily reading and understanding of the scriptures

Meet Our Contributors

Popular Posts

  • Acts: Common Men; Mighty GodMay 20, 2026
  • Acts: Not AfraidMay 19, 2026
  • Acts: The Cost of the Great CommissionMay 18, 2026

Subscribe to starter

Get posts directly to your email inbox!

A WordPress.com Website.

Loading Comments...

    • Subscribe Subscribed
      • City Life Starter
      • Join 146 other subscribers
      • Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
      • City Life Starter
      • Subscribe Subscribed
      • Sign up
      • Log in
      • Report this content
      • View site in Reader
      • Manage subscriptions
      • Collapse this bar