I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments (Colossians 2:4)

Christian views on the connection between biblical prophecy and current events can be diverse and nuanced.  However, many Christians agree on the importance of the prophetic Scriptures in shaping their understanding of the world.  This blog post explores the role of biblical prophecy in relation to current events from a Christian perspective. Biblical Prophecy: A Glimpse into God's Plan The Bible is rich with prophecies, many of which provide insight into God's plan for humanity's redemption.  Prophecy in the Bible is not merely foretelling future events; it is primarily about forth-telling God's word.  "Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets." - Amos 3:7. Past Biblical Prophecies Fulfilled Many biblical prophecies have already been fulfilled. These include prophecies about the coming of Jesus Christ, His death, and resurrection.  Christians view these fulfilled prophecies as evidence of the reliability ...

Marriage and family hold an esteemed position in the Christian faith. The Bible provides a rich and nuanced perspective on these foundational societal structures.  This blog post delves into the biblical perspective on marriage and family, shedding light on the value, purpose, and principles that guide these relationships. Marriage: A Divine Institution According to the biblical narrative, marriage is a divine institution ordained by God at the inception of humanity.  In Genesis, the Bible records the creation of the first man and woman, Adam and Eve, and their joining together as a married couple.  "So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them." - Genesis 1:27.  Marriage, from this vantage point, is not merely a human contract; it is a divine covenant, mirroring God's covenantal love for His people. Marriage: A Picture of Christ and the Church In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul adds a profound laye...

The problem of evil and suffering is a question that has long intrigued theologians, philosophers, and believers alike:  If God is both all-loving and all-powerful, why does He allow evil and suffering to persist?  The Bible does not shy away from this tough question. Instead, it offers insights and perspectives that help us grapple with the reality of evil and suffering in our world.  This blog post will explore how the Bible addresses this profound issue. Evil and Suffering in a Fallen World The Bible's initial premise is that the world was created good. However, it quickly introduces the element of human free will, which is used to choose rebellion and disobedience, leading to sin (Genesis 3).  From this perspective, much of the evil and suffering in our world are the ripple effects of humanity's rebellion against God.  "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinne...

Biblical prophets hold a significant place in the narrative and theology of the Bible.  These prophets, called by God, served unique roles in the history of God's people, offering messages that carried divine authority and relevance not only for their time, but also for future generations.  This blog post explores the roles of the biblical prophets. Biblical Prophets as Mouthpieces of God First and foremost, prophets served as God's spokespersons. They conveyed messages from God to people, often using the words, "Thus says the Lord" to underscore divine authority behind their words.  "Then the LORD reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, 'I have put my words in your mouth.'" - Jeremiah 1:9. Biblical Prophets as Intercessors Prophets also functioned as intercessors, standing in the gap between God and people, pleading on the people's behalf.  Abraham (Genesis 18:22-33), Moses (Exodus 32:11-14), and Samuel (1 Samuel 7:5-9) are no...

One of the most widely known stories in the Bible is that of Noah and the flood. This narrative, found in Genesis chapters 6-9, is more than just an account of divine judgment and survival.  It is a profound story that holds significant theological and moral lessons for the Christian faith. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of the biblical flood story. Context of the Biblical Flood Story The flood narrative takes place in a world described as deeply corrupted and filled with violence (Genesis 6:11).  Humanity had strayed far from God's original design in creation. In response to the depth of human wickedness, God determines to send a cataclysmic flood to cleanse the earth.  However, Noah, described as a righteous man who walked with God, found favor in God's sight (Genesis 6:8-9). Divine Judgement and the Biblical Flood The flood story illustrates the serious consequences of human sin and God's righteous judgment.  It reinforces the principle that a...

Prayer holds an essential place in Christian life. It is more than a religious ritual or obligation; it is a personal and profound interaction with God.  The Bible, Christianity's guiding text, is replete with references to prayer, providing believers with instructions, examples, and insights into the significance and power of prayer.  This blog post explores the biblical perspective on prayer and its importance. Prayer: A Definition Prayer, in the biblical sense, is communication with God. It is a two-way conversation that involves both speaking to God and listening to His response.  The apostle Paul encourages believers to "pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17), emphasizing prayer as an ongoing, integral part of the Christian life. Prayer as Relationship with God Prayer is central to the believer's relationship with God. It is through prayer that we express our love, adoration, gratitude, and devotion to God.  Prayer also allows us to present our needs and c...

Prophetic books form a significant part of the Bible, providing profound insights into God's character, His plans for His people, and His overarching plan for all of humanity.  These books contain the words of the prophets, chosen individuals who served as God's messengers, conveying His words to His people in times of both turmoil and tranquility.  In this blog post, we will explore the major prophetic books in the Bible and their unique messages. Major Prophets of the Bible The Major Prophets are so-called not because they were more important, but because their books are longer. These prophets include Isaiah, Jeremiah (who also wrote Lamentations), Ezekiel, and Daniel. Isaiah The Book of Isaiah is a profound prophetic book that presents a mixture of judgment and hope. Isaiah prophesied during a period of upheaval and uncertainty in Judah.  He emphasized God's holiness, calling out the people's sin and predicting judgment. However, Isaiah also promised a future restora...

Upon encountering long lists of names in the Bible, such as the genealogies found in Genesis 5, 1 Chronicles 1-9, or Matthew 1, you may have wondered about their purpose.  At first glance, these passages might seem tedious and inconsequential. However, genealogies play a vital role in the Bible, connecting different narratives, highlighting key theological points, and grounding the biblical narrative in real history.  In this post, we explore the significance of these genealogies and their implications for understanding the biblical narrative. Genealogies Ground the Biblical Narrative in Real History Genealogies ground the biblical narrative in real history. They serve as a reminder that the events described in the Bible involve actual historical figures, not mythical or fictional characters.  This lends credibility to the biblical narrative and underscores its reliability as a historical document. For example, the genealogy in Luke 3, which traces Jesus's lineage back to...

Christian morality and ethics are firmly grounded in the teachings of the Bible, the sacred scripture that serves as the foundation for the Christian faith.  From the Ten Commandments in the Old Testament to Jesus' teachings in the New Testament, the Bible is filled with moral principles that guide behavior, inform decisions, and shape character.  In this post, we will explore some of these foundational principles of biblical morality and ethics. Love God and Love Your Neighbor The paramount principle in Christian morality is the dual commandment to love God and to love others. Jesus himself affirmed this when asked about the greatest commandment in the law.  “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: “Love your neighbor as yourself.'" - Matthew 22:37-39.  The call to love God is a call to wholehearted devotion, total commitment, and faithful obedie...

The concept of the "Kingdom of God" is of paramount importance in the Christian faith.  Throughout the Bible, this phrase emerges as a recurring theme, providing us with a vivid portrait of God's divine rule and the ultimate reality He desires to bring about.  In this blog post, we dive into the biblical meaning of the "Kingdom of God," how it unfolds throughout the scriptures, and its significance for us today. Defining the Kingdom of God At its core, the Kingdom of God refers to God's sovereign rule and reign over all of creation. It is a realm characterized by righteousness, peace, joy, and love, where God's will is done completely, just as Jesus stated in the Lord's Prayer:  "Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." - Matthew 6:10. The Kingdom of God in the Old Testament The concept of God's kingdom is rooted in the Old Testament, where God is regularly depicted as the King of the universe.  The Psalms, in...

The concept of "covenant" is central to the biblical narrative, shaping the relationship between God and His people throughout both the Old and New Testaments.  Understanding the meaning of ‘Covenant’ is vital to comprehending the overarching story of the Bible.  In this blog post, we dive into the biblical concept of a covenant, its implications, and its vital role in key biblical narratives. Defining "Covenant" In the simplest terms, a covenant is a binding agreement between two parties.  In the Bible, it often describes a solemn pact between God and humans, initiated by God and featuring promises that God voluntarily chooses to make.  These covenants come with conditions that people must fulfill, and they invariably involve God's promise of blessing for obedience and curse for disobedience.  The following is a list of major Biblical Covenants The Noahic Covenant The first explicit covenant in the Bible is between God and Noah after the flood. God promises nev...

Understanding the biblical view of human nature is a cornerstone of Christian theology and profoundly shapes the worldview of many believers.  This subject is vast, with scriptures painting a multifaceted picture of humanity's state and purpose.  Let us explore what the Bible says about human nature, focusing on our creation, fall, redemption, and ultimate destiny, as seen in key biblical passages. Creation: Humanity as God's Image Bearers The Bible's portrayal of human nature begins with the account of creation. In the book of Genesis, we find that humans are unique among all creation: they are made in God's image.  "So God created mankind in his own image; in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them." - Genesis 1:27.  This means that humans possess qualities reflecting God's character: reason, morality, creativity, the capacity for relational love, and spiritual longing.  It also speaks to our inherent dignity and worth. As image...

Biblical miracles are extraordinary events of divine intervention in human affairs. From Moses parting the Red Sea in Exodus (Exodus 14:21-22) to Jesus turning water into wine in the New Testament (John 2:1-11), miracles have been a source of inspiration, hope, and debate among Christians.  In this blog post, we explore how Christians interpret biblical miracles and the relevance these interpretations have for their faith. Biblical Miracles as Signs of God's Power and Authority One of the primary ways Christians interpret biblical miracles is as demonstrations of God's power and authority over creation.  The miracle of creation in Genesis 1 is the first example of this, where God creates the universe simply by speaking.  This divine authority is demonstrated throughout the Bible in miracles such as calming a storm (Mark 4:35-41) and the resurrection of Jesus (Matthew 28:5-6), showing God's dominion over nature and death. Biblical Miracles as Validation of Prophets and Jes...

Angels play a prominent role in the Bible and provide a fascinating aspect of biblical theology. These divine beings appear from the early pages of Genesis to the prophetic visions of Revelation.  But what roles do angels play in the biblical narrative and how do they interact with humanity and God? This blog post will explore the biblical understanding of angels and their functions as depicted in the scriptures. Angels are Messengers of God The word 'angel' derives from the Greek word 'angelos' and the Hebrew 'malak,' both meaning ‘messenger’.  One of the primary roles of angels in the Bible is to act as God's messengers, communicating His words to human beings.  They bring important messages, often about God's plan and purpose. For example, the angel Gabriel announced the birth of John the Baptist to Zechariah (Luke 1:11-20) and later the birth of Jesus to Mary (Luke 1:26-38).  An angel informed the shepherds about Jesus' birth in Bethlehem (Luke 2...

What happens after death is one of the most profound questions we can ponder.  In this blog post, we will dive into the biblical view of the afterlife as expressed in both the Old Testament and the New Testament of the Bible. Old Testament View of the Afterlife In the Old Testament, the concept of the afterlife is not as fully developed as in the New Testament. However, it does mention Sheol, a place where the dead go, but it is often described more as a shadowy existence rather than a place of reward or punishment.  Sheol, the Hebrew word for the grave or the underworld, is depicted as a realm of darkness, silence and forgetfulness, where all people, both righteous and unrighteous, go after death (Psalm 88:3; Ecclesiastes 9:10).  There is little sense of personal consciousness or moral judgment in Sheol. It is not equivalent to the later concepts of Heaven or Hell, but it is a murky, intermediate state. The New Testament View of the Afterlife The New Testament presents a...

An understanding of how the Old Testament and the New Testament relate to each other is essential to understand the Bible in its entirety and God’s plan for humanity.  The Bible is a two-part collection of religious texts, separated into the Old Testament, primarily outlining history, laws, and prophecies, and the New Testament, focusing on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  But how do these two significant parts of the Bible relate? Do they oppose each other, or are they parts of a harmonious whole? Let us dive into the details. Continuity and Fulfillment One fundamental aspect of the relationship between the Old and New Testaments is the concept of continuity and fulfillment.  The prophecies of the Old Testament were fulfilled in the New Testament, specifically in the person of Jesus Christ.  For example, Isaiah 53, a well-known Old Testament prophecy, is the prediction of Christ's suffering and death. The Gospel of Matthew frequently me...

The concept of ‘Messiah’ holds a significant place in the Bible. Let us explore the meaning of Messiah in the Bible and its historical and theological development. The Meaning of the Term Messiah The word Messiah is derived from the Hebrew word "māšîaḥ”, which means "anointed one" or "chosen one."  In the Old Testament, the term is used to describe individuals who have been anointed or set apart by God for a specific purpose or role, such as kings, priests, and prophets.  In the context of biblical prophecy, however, the term Messiah takes on a more profound and eschatological significance, pointing to a future figure who would bring about God's ultimate redemption and deliverance for His people. Messiah in the Old Testament The concept of a Messiah in the Old Testament can be traced back to the early promises and covenants established by God with key figures such as Abraham, Moses and David.  These covenants serve as the foundation for the future hope of a...

The parables of Jesus, found in the New Testament, have been an enduring source of inspiration and spiritual teaching for Christians around the world.   Parables are simple, illustrative stories that convey profound spiritual truths. Jesus used these parables to instruct His followers and explain the mysteries of the Kingdom of God. But just how many parables did Jesus speak?  Let us explore this question together in this blog post. Counting the Number of Parables of Jesus While the exact count can differ depending on how one defines a "parable," most scholars agree that there are around 40 distinct parables of Jesus recorded in the Gospels. Here is an overview of these parables: The Sower (Matthew 13:3-23, Mark 4:3-20, Luke 8:5-15) The Weeds (Matthew 13:24-30) The Growing Seed (Mark 4:26-29) The Mustard Seed (Matthew 13:31-32, Mark 4:30-32, Luke 13:18-19) The Yeast (Matthew 13:33, Luke 13:20-21) The Hidden Treasure (Matthew 13:44) The Pearl (Matthew 13:45-46) The Fishing...

Jesus performed many miracles that demonstrated His divine authority and compassion. These miracles of Jesus varied widely, from healing diseases to commanding nature, raising the dead, and providing food supernaturally. Counting the Number of Miracles Jesus Performed But how many miracles did Jesus actually perform? This blog post will explore this question and delve into the specific miraculous acts attributed to Jesus in the New Testament.  There are 37 miracles of Jesus that are recorded in the New Testament. The following is a brief overview of these miracles, arranged according to the type of miracle: Healing Miracles of Jesus Healing of a leper (Matthew 8:1-4) Healing the centurion's servant (Matthew 8:5-13) Healing Peter's mother-in-law (Matthew 8:14-15) Healing the sick during the evening (Matthew 8:16-17) Healing a paralytic (Matthew 9:1-8) Healing the bleeding woman (Matthew 9:20-22) Raising Jairus's daughter (Matthew 9:23-26) Healing two blind men (Matthew 9:27-...