Formality and decorum (in terms of dress and behavior) are part of godly standards and sanctity. We must always look for the spirit and intent of what God commands.

Many have inadvertently adopted a soft concept of God, disrespecting and showing contempt for God's authority and power. Godly fear is a gift of wisdom.

A vile person is one who, in his contempt for God, is wicked, perverse, consumed by sin. Perhaps surprisingly, God says such people should be despised!

The same attitudes in Malachi are prevalent today. The offenses mentioned are 1) arrogance, 2) mixed marriages, and 3) neglect of tithes.

God is training us as a holy priesthood, called to offer unblemished sacrifices, honoring His name, putting down pride, presumptuousness, and arrogance.

The loyalty of the Laodiceans did not extend far beyond loyalty to self. Loyalty and friendship are inextricably bound together.

In Matthew 12:31-32, Jesus warns the Pharisees about crossing a line that cannot be uncrossed, an act commonly called 'the unpardonable sin.'

God never says the Christian life would be easy or that life would always be fair. Difficulties and tests are given to test our hearts and promote humility.

David's power and assumption of immunity led to arrogance, complacency, and a total disregard for God's commands, bringing an unpleasant visit from Nathan.