Dr Paul Allen

“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” ( Galatians 2:20 ) The verb “to be,” in its various forms and tenses, enjoys wide usage throughout Scripture. Verses employing it, as it relates to us, contain many of the greatest and most precious truths. Consider the following sampling. Past tense: “While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” ( Romans 5:8 ). “When we were enemies, we were reconciled to God” (v. 10). “You hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins” ( Ephesians 2:1 ). “You, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled” ( Colossians 1:21 ). Present tense: “Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven” ( Romans 4:7 ). “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God?” ( 1 Corinthians 3:16 ). “Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto sa

He grew up in austere conditions in the heart of Mexico, convinced there was no God. But as he grew up and observed circumstances and situations that defied rational explanation, his unbelief was challenged. "I was an atheist," says Alfredo. "My father deserted my mother, and that's when everything changed for us. I had one pair of pants. I watched my mother work hard for long hours," he told Bible League International. But through a Christian ministry's local outreach to the poor, his mother eventually discovered the love of Jesus and began to follow Him. Alfredo's atheism was challenged as he watched unusual events unfold. "I saw how God provided for us, fed us, and even provided an opportunity for me to get an education. It was a miracle," he came to realize. None of these things would "have happened without God," Alfredo concluded. Inspired by his mother's growing faith, and the power of the Holy Spirit softening his hear