Week 35
Your Weekly Round-up Sunday!
Welcome to our Week 35 Round-up, where we explore God's timeless truths and practical wisdom for today's Christian. This week, we're delving into spiritual self-examination, tackling why so many modern preachers focus on Old Testament teachings, exploring the dangers of DIY Bible interpretation, and examining what it truly means to press toward the mark of Christlikeness.
Whether you're seeking encouragement, biblical insights, or practical guidance for your faith journey, our Week 35 Round-up offers spiritual nourishment to strengthen your walk with Christ. Join us as we unpack these essential topics through our daily teachings, YouTube content, and more!
Building Your Faith on Biblical Foundations! Discover core Christian principles and deepen your relationship with Christ through biblical teaching and practical application…
Taking Your Spiritual Temperature: A Christian's Health Check!
Using God's Word as our diagnostic tool for spiritual wellbeing…
The Necessity of Spiritual Self-Examination
Just as a physician takes our temperature, checks our blood pressure, and examines vital signs to assess our physical health, Christians need regular spiritual check-ups to gauge their spiritual wellbeing. This self-examination isn't optional—it's a biblical mandate that ensures we remain vibrant in our faith journey rather than drifting into spiritual complacency or illness.
The Apostle Paul provides clear guidance on this matter: "Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves" (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). This instruction carries the same urgency as a doctor's recommendation for preventative health screenings. Our spiritual health directly impacts our relationship with God, our effectiveness in ministry, and our ability to withstand trials.
But how exactly do we take our spiritual temperature? What indicators does Scripture provide for this essential self-assessment?
Biblical Vital Signs for Spiritual Health
1. The Fruit Examination: Jesus taught that a tree is known by its fruit. "Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them" (Matthew 7:20 KJV). The presence of spiritual fruit—"love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance" (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV)—indicates spiritual vitality. Their absence may signal underlying spiritual concerns.
2. The Word Test: Our relationship with Scripture serves as a critical indicator. Do we hunger for God's Word? The Psalmist described this healthy appetite: "How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" (Psalm 119:103 KJV). Diminishing desire for Scripture often precedes spiritual decline.
3. The Prayer Gauge: Prayer is our spiritual breathing. Its consistency and depth reveal much about our connection with God. Christ emphasised this through His own example: "And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed" (Mark 1:35 KJV).
4. The Fellowship Factor: Our commitment to Christian community provides another vital sign. "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching" (Hebrews 10:25 KJV).
5. The Heart Monitor: Our innermost thoughts and attitudes reveal spiritual realities. "For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he" (Proverbs 23:7 KJV). The condition of our hearts—our motives, desires, and thought patterns—provides perhaps the most accurate reading of our spiritual temperature.
Practical Application: Your Spiritual Health Check
Consider setting aside regular times—perhaps monthly or quarterly—for intentional spiritual self-examination. Ask yourself probing questions about each biblical vital sign. Where there's strength, give thanks. Where there's weakness, seek God's grace for growth.
Remember that the purpose of this examination isn't condemnation but restoration and growth. "Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting" (Psalm 139:23-24 KJV).
Just as physical health requires ongoing attention and care, spiritual health demands vigilance and deliberate nurturing. Through regular spiritual check-ups guided by Scripture, we position ourselves for continued growth into Christlikeness—the ultimate mark of spiritual vitality…
"Something to think about" is a phrase that indicates there is a topic or idea presented that the reader should consider and contemplate, for further reflection or discussion. Published weekly on a Monday…
Monday 25/08/25
Why do so Many Modern Preachers Focus on Old Testament Teachings?
A Critical Note!
Why the Focus on Old Testament Teachings?
While the Old Testament provides valuable insights into God's character and redemptive plan, many modern preachers overemphasise its teachings without properly contextualising them through the lens of Christ's finished work. This imbalance can inadvertently lead believers into a law-based relationship with God rather than embracing the grace-centred approach Jesus established. The New Covenant represents a complete paradigm shift—not merely an improvement on the old system, but a revolutionary new way of relating to God through Christ as our mediator. As born-again believers, we now enjoy direct access to the Father, Spirit-led living, and a relationship based on sonship rather than servitude. Modern teaching must maintain this delicate balance: honouring God's entire Word whilst clearly presenting the transformative nature of the New Covenant and the profound implications of our new identity in Christ. It's time for contemporary preaching to fully embrace this reality and lead believers into the abundant life characterised by grace, freedom, and intimate relationship with our heavenly Father…
Messages from the Outpost: Join us at our home church (186, Greenacres, Wetheral, Carlisle CA4 8LU, UK) every Tuesday & Thursday at 7:30 pm.
Tuesday 26/08/25
If the Bible Can Mean Anything to Anyone, It Ultimately Means Nothing at All…
When Scripture becomes a subjective playground rather than divine revelation, we lose the very foundation of our faith…
Biblical Interpretation without Boundaries leads to Spiritual Chaos!
The Bible's meaning is not a matter of personal preference or subjective interpretation. In our increasingly relativistic world, many approach Scripture as if any interpretation is valid as long as it feels right to them. This dangerous approach undermines the very authority and purpose of God's Word. When Scripture becomes merely a mirror reflecting our own biases rather than divine revelation, we lose the foundation of our faith. Proper biblical interpretation requires attention to context, historical background, and the overall teaching of Scripture within the community of faith. We must approach God's Word with both conviction about its clarity and humility about our understanding. Remember: if the Bible can mean anything to anyone, it ultimately means nothing at all. Only by seeking what God intended to communicate—not what we want it to say—does Scripture fulfil its purpose as the authoritative, life-transforming Word of our Heavenly Father…
"Write this down" is a phrase used to draw attention to essential information that needs to be recorded or remembered. Published weekly on a Wednesday…
Wednesday 27/08/25
Corrupting Scripture!
As Christians, we must faithfully steward God's Word, preserving its meaning for future generations!
The Danger of Modern Bible Translations!
While modern Bible translations make Scripture more accessible, they risk compromising accuracy for readability. This teaching examines how contemporary versions can distort God's intended message, particularly when they diminish the crucial connection between knowledge and action that permeates Scripture. Drawing from passages in Colossians, Matthew, James and Romans, we explore how translations like the KJV often preserve theological nuances lost in more dynamic renderings. Scripture isn't merely for accumulating knowledge—it's meant to transform our lives through application. We encourage believers to approach Bible study with discernment, comparing multiple translations and seeking God's guidance to properly understand and live out His Word. True faith manifests not just in knowing the right doctrines, but in walking worthy of the Lord, bearing fruit in every good work, and growing in our relationship with Him…
Messages from the Outpost: Join us at our home church (186, Greenacres, Wetheral, Carlisle CA4 8LU, UK) every Tuesday & Thursday at 7:30 pm.
Thursday 28/08/25
The Danger of DIY Bible Interpretation!
Why Context & Tradition Matter!
Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth
In our modern world of individualised spirituality, DIY Bible interpretation has become increasingly common. This dangerous approach treats Scripture as a blank canvas for personal opinions rather than God's revealed truth with fixed meaning. Our latest teaching explores why context and tradition matter when studying God's Word. We examine how subjective interpretation undermines Scripture's corrective function, hinders church unity, and weakens discipleship. The Bible wasn't written in a vacuum—it was given within specific historical contexts that we must understand. While the Reformers championed Bible access for all believers, they never intended a free-for-all of contradictory interpretations. Instead, we need sound hermeneutical principles and the guidance of Christian community. With humility and careful attention to context, we can discover what God truly intended to communicate rather than imposing our own ideas. Only then does Scripture fulfil its purpose as the authoritative, life-transforming revelation of our Heavenly Father…
Back to Basics is a weekly Christian living teaching blog that focuses on teaching the principles of Christian living from a fundamental perspective. Published weekly on a Friday…
Friday 29/08/25
Pressing toward the Mark: What it Means to be a Christian!
Running the Race of Faith with Perseverance & Purpose!
Embracing the Race of Faith: Paul's Vision for Christian Living!
Pressing toward the mark of Christlikeness is the essence of authentic Christian living. In this powerful teaching, we explore what it truly means to be a Christian through the lens of Philippians 3:13-14 KJV. Like athletes in a race, we are called to pursue Christ with determination and zeal, not casual commitment. Our ultimate goal is conformity to Christ—knowing Him, loving Him, and becoming like Him in character.
This teaching delves into the importance of leaving the past behind, whether failures or achievements, and embracing spiritual disciplines like prayer, Bible study, and fellowship. We address the obstacles Christians face from the world, our sinful nature, and spiritual forces, while emphasising the vital role of community in our journey. Throughout it all, we're reminded that we run not in our own strength, but through God's sustaining grace and empowering Spirit.
Whether you're new to faith or have walked with Christ for decades, this message will inspire you to press on toward the mark with renewed vigour, fixing your eyes on the prize that awaits faithful believers…
YouTube: Engaging Content Line-up on 'Back to Basics: Christian Living' YouTube Channel. Published weekly from Monday to Friday...
This Week: 25 August - 29 August 2025
Welcome to this week's exciting line-up on our "Back to Basics: Christian Living" YouTube channel! We've carefully curated content designed to strengthen your faith, provide daily spiritual nourishment, and accompany you on your walk with Christ. From devotional moments to in-depth teachings, we're committed to bringing you resources that both inspire and equip.
Here's what you can look forward to this week:
Daily Morning Insights & Prayer: Start each day from Monday to Friday with our brief but powerful "Morning Insights - Prayer" segment, perfect for setting a spiritual tone for your day.
Outpost shorts: Throughout the week Monday to Friday, keep an eye out for our regularly updated bite-sized content to keep you inspired and connected.
Our YouTube content features these playlist series:
Back to Basics: Christian living - Core teaching episodes reinforcing foundational Christian principles.
Back to Basics: Christian living Q&A - A question-and-answer format addressing viewers' faith-related inquiries.
Let's Read the Word Together - A series dedicated to Scripture study and its practical application to daily life.
What’s on my Heart? - A playlist featuring brief spiritual insights where I share God's wisdom on specific topics with practical applications for your Christian Walk.
Under the Tree - Building a solid foundation for a Christian life -Reflecting Christ, Overcoming Challenges, and Standing Strong in Faith offering insightful discussions on several topics related to Christian living & spiritual growth.
Back to Basics: for KIDS! - Content specifically designed for children and families - Animated short-form content coming soon!
Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don't miss any of these uplifting videos!
Note: Remember, this schedule is subject to change, but we're committed to bringing you content that enriches your spiritual journey….
Exciting Podcast Offerings on our YouTube Channel…
We're thrilled to announce these engaging podcast series available on our YouTube Channel. Tune in for spiritual growth and insightful discussions:
Blazing Apostles: Sharing powerful testimonies that highlight God's grace, love, and miraculous work in everyday life.
Saturday Conversations: Enjoy casual yet profound dialogues on various aspects of Christian living every Saturday.
Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel to stay updated with these enriching podcast episodes. They're perfect for your spiritual journey, whether you're commuting, relaxing at home, or seeking inspiration throughout your week…
Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don't miss any of these uplifting videos!
Note: Remember, this schedule is subject to change, but we're committed to bringing you content that enriches your spiritual journey….
NEWS! Updates and announcements about Back to Basics: Christian living, including content changes, newsletters, website updates, and valuable information for our audience…
Read, Watch & Do: Transforming Faith Through Daily Engagement!
In our fast-paced digital world, the way we consume spiritual content has evolved dramatically, yet the fundamental purpose remains unchanged—to grow in our relationship with Christ and transform our daily lives through His Word. The "Read, Watch & Do" approach provides a comprehensive framework for genuine spiritual growth that engages our whole being.
The Power of Reading God's Word
Scripture reminds us that "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16-17 KJV). Reading God's Word isn't merely an intellectual exercise—it's spiritual nourishment that our souls need daily.
When we commit to reading scripture regularly, we allow God's truth to penetrate our hearts and minds, gradually transforming our thoughts and perspectives as we "be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:2 KJV).
The Impact of Watching & Listening
While reading forms the foundation, watching and listening to biblical teaching provides additional dimensions to our understanding. Jesus Himself used visual parables and illustrations to convey profound spiritual truths.
Visual learning engages different parts of our brain, often making complex theological concepts more accessible and memorable. Through this, we benefit from the spiritual gifts God has given to teachers in the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:11-12 KJV).
The Transformation Through Doing
The most crucial element of spiritual growth is applying what we've learned through action. James warns about the danger of being hearers only: "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves" (James 1:22 KJV).
True spiritual maturity comes when we put God's Word into practice in our daily lives—through acts of service, moral choices aligned with Scripture, forgiveness, speaking truth in love, or sacrificial giving. Each act of obedience strengthens our spiritual muscles.
Practical Integration
This three-fold approach can easily fit into your daily routine:
Morning: Begin your day by reading Scripture
During breaks: Watch or listen to teaching that expands biblical principles
Evening: Reflect and plan specific actions to apply what you've learned
While this approach works individually, it thrives in community where believers can share insights and maintain accountability. Through this balanced framework that engages mind, heart, and hands, we position ourselves for authentic transformation that honours Christ in every aspect of our lives…
Back to Basics: Christian Living - Your Faith Journey. We're excited to share insights and practical guidance to help strengthen your faith journey in 2025…
Running the Race of Faith: Overcoming Our Adversary!
The Christian journey is often portrayed in Scripture as a race—not a casual jog, but an intense competition requiring focus, discipline, and perseverance. As we press toward the mark of Christlikeness, we face a formidable opponent who actively works against our spiritual progress.
The Apostle Peter provides a sobering warning about this adversary: "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour" (1 Peter 5:8 KJV). This imagery of a prowling lion vividly illustrates the predatory nature of our spiritual enemy, who watches for moments of weakness or distraction when we might be vulnerable to attack.
Yet as believers, we need not despair. Paul reminds us that our competition isn't ultimately against flesh and blood, but "against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places" (Ephesians 6:12 KJV). Recognising the true nature of our struggle empowers us to adopt the right strategies for victory.
To successfully run this race against our adversary, we must first be properly equipped. Paul instructs us to "Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil" (Ephesians 6:11 KJV). Each piece of this spiritual armour—the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit—prepares us for the challenges we'll face as we press toward the mark.
Beyond equipment, successful runners maintain unwavering focus. The writer of Hebrews encourages us to run "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith" (Hebrews 12:2 KJV). When our eyes drift from Christ to our circumstances or our adversary, we become vulnerable to discouragement and defeat. But with our gaze fixed firmly on Jesus, we find inspiration and strength to continue forward.
Resistance is another crucial element in this spiritual competition. James provides a powerful strategy: "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you" (James 4:7 KJV). Note the order—submission to God must precede resistance to the devil. Our victory isn't won through our own strength but through our position in Christ.
Indeed, our ultimate triumph is secured not by our performance but by Christ's finished work. "Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us" (Romans 8:37 KJV). We don't merely survive the race; through Christ, we overwhelmingly conquer.
This assurance allows us to press toward the mark with confidence, knowing that "greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world" (1 John 4:4 KJV). The indwelling Holy Spirit empowers us to overcome every obstacle our adversary places in our path.
As we run with endurance, we anticipate the victory that awaits: "And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly" (Romans 16:20 KJV). The final defeat of our adversary is certain, giving us courage to persevere through present challenges.
In this race of faith, we're not competing for earthly accolades but for an imperishable crown. "Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible" (1 Corinthians 9:24-25 KJV).
Let us therefore press on with renewed determination, confident that through Christ, we will finish our course victoriously and receive the crown of righteousness which the Lord has promised to all who love His appearing…
With Christ's love,
Dave & Elaine
