The Parable of the Two Debtors – part 1 of 2

The Parable of the Two Debtors – part 1 of 2

In part 1 today, Pastor Steve Carpenter begins an in-depth exploration of Jesus’ Parable of Two Debtors from Luke 7:36–50. In this parable an immoral woman comes center stage as a perfect picture of both forgiveness and repentance as Jesus schools a self-righteous Pharisee on such matters.  In the process, this (formally) immoral woman beautifully bestows the honor and courtesies rightfully due Jesus, but which had been shamefully withheld by his Pharisaic host. Simon, the self-righteous Pharisee, would do well…

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The Return of the Prodigal Son – part 4 of 4

The Return of the Prodigal Son – part 4 of 4

This is the 4th and final message of a 4 part series on the 15th chapter of Luke which contains the parable of The Return of the Prodigal Son. This message focuses on the final section of chapter 15, verses 25–32. Here, the older son comes in from the field and is angered by the celebration occasioned by the return of his wayward younger brother. And once again, the father amazingly allows himself to suffer humiliation, this time at the…

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The Return of the Prodigal Son – part 3 of 4

The Return of the Prodigal Son – part 3 of 4

This week is Part 3 of a 4 part series examining Luke 15, which includes the parable of The Return of the Prodigal Son.  Luke 15 is the “Lost & Found” department of the New Testament. It started off with a lost sheep, moved to a lost coin and now moves on to a lost son.  And just as with the lost sheep and the lost coin, this lost son needed to be searched out and found by the father,…

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The Return of the Prodigal Son – part 2 of 4

The Return of the Prodigal Son – part 2 of 4

Paul Trask continues with Part 2 of a 4 part series examining Luke 15, which includes the parable of The Return of the Prodigal Son.  He explains that one of the most important keys to understanding this chapter is realizing that the entire chapter — in reality — is really only one parable, not three (see v. 3). The Lost Sheep, the Lost Coin and the Lost Son are really then 3 “acts” comprising a single “play,” all conveying a…

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The Return of the Prodigal Son – part 1 of 4

The Return of the Prodigal Son – part 1 of 4

Paul Trask introduces a 4 part series examining Luke 15, which includes the parable of The Return of the Prodigal Son.  He explains that one of the most important keys to understanding this chapter is realizing that the entire chapter – in reality – is really only one parable, not three. The Lost Sheep, the Lost Coin and the Lost Son are really then 3 “acts” comprising a single “play,” all conveying a single, unified message. He then explores the…

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Majorie Dillion Memorial Service

Majorie Dillion Memorial Service

Marjorie Dillon had just celebrated her 100th birthday, and had been a member of Strasburg Union Church for over ninety of those years! Pastor Steve Carpenter remembers Marjorie’s life of sweet devotion to her Lord and Savior by reciting several of her many poems, which evidence both her devotion and the Lord’s inspiration.  Pastor Carpenter then expands wonderfully the “goodness and steadfast love” of God contained in Psalm 23, which culminates with us “dwelling in the house of the Lord…

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The Resurrection of Lazarus

The Resurrection of Lazarus

The 11th chapter of John’s gospel celebrates a “coming out” party, that concludes with the joy of Lazarus coming out of the grave. The same joy that was celebrated in John 11 is appointed for us as well. The resurrection will be the greatest coming out party in all of history as time merges into eternity, and the new creation is celebrated by a new humanity that will dwell in the New Jerusalem in a new heavens and new earth!…

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Jesus – Our Tabernacle!

Jesus – Our Tabernacle!

Dr. Steve Carpenter delivers his Resurrection Day message at Strasburg Union Church, entitled “Jesus – Our Tabernacle.” He beautifully demonstrates that in His crucifixion and resurrection Jesus Christ became the fulfillment of all the types and shadows embodied in Israel’s Tabernacle. As a result, He will be our tabernacle throughout all eternity, and we shall dwell within His tent.  We are His new creations, now housed in Christ Jesus Himself. Old things have passed away, behold, all things have been…

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John’s KEY Unlocks Revelation!

John’s KEY Unlocks Revelation!

In addition to reading this article online, you can now also purchase a booklet version which is available in our bookstore. This text version is great for both group and personal study. It is also a great way to introduce others to this vital and timely subject. You might also consider giving one to your pastor! Click here to be taken to this item in our bookstore —–> John’s KEY Unlocks Revelation! A closer look at John’s theme verse. 1…

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Shall “All Israel” be Saved?

Shall “All Israel” be Saved?

In addition to reading this article online, you can now also purchase a booklet version which is available in our bookstore. This text version is great for both group and personal study. It is also a great way to introduce others to this vital and timely subject. You might also consider giving one to your pastor! Click here to be taken to this item in our bookstore —–> There is a very popular notion in American Christianity today, that the…

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