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

Jeremiah 29:11 is one of the most popular and comforting verses in the Bible. It says, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Many people cling to this promise when they face difficulties or uncertainties in life. But what does the verse Jeremiah 29:11 really mean? And how can we apply it to our lives today? Jeremiah 29:11 is explained in its context in this blogpost. Source . The Context of Jeremiah 29:11 To understand the meaning of Jeremiah 29:11, we need to look at the historical and literary context of the verse. Jeremiah was a prophet who lived in Judah during the seventh and sixth centuries BC. He witnessed the decline and fall of his nation as a result of their disobedience and idolatry. He also prophesied about the coming judgment of God on Judah and the surrounding nations.  One of the most important events in Jeremiah's ministry was the Babylonian exile. In 597 BC,...

Psalm 91 is a beautiful psalm of protection and trust in God. It is one of the most popular psalms in the Bible , and it has been a source of comfort and hope for many people throughout history. In this blog post, I will share some insights and reflections on Psalm 91, and how it can inspire us to live with faith and courage in our daily lives. Psalm 91: A Source of Protection and Trust. Source . Unwavering Confidence in God's Protection in Psalm 91 Psalm 91 begins with a declaration of confidence in God's presence and protection: "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'" (Psalm 91:1-2 NIV). The psalmist uses different names for God to express his intimate relationship with him: the Most High, the Almighty, the Lord, my God.  These names reveal God's sovereignty, power, covenant faithfulness, and personal care for his people....

The holiday season is a time when many of us gather with family and friends to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Amidst the joy and cheer, however, a perennial question tends to resurface: "Is Christmas really a Christian holiday or was it borrowed from pagan traditions?"  Skeptics, atheists, and even some liberal theologians often assert that Christmas is nothing more than a repackaged pagan holiday. This notion has gained some traction in media and popular culture, but is it true? In this article, I will dig into the historical evidence to debunk the myth that Christmas is a pagan holiday. The Popular Argument: A Pagan Rebrand Skeptics often point to the Roman festival of Saturnalia or the feast of Sol Invictus, claiming that Christmas is merely a Christianized version of these pagan holidays. This theory has been popularized in various articles, documentaries, and social media posts. While it is a compelling narrative, it does not hold up to scholarly scrutiny. The Timi...

The subject of the virgin birth of Jesus has long been a topic of intense debate and scrutiny, not just among atheists and skeptics, but even within Christian circles. This blog post aims to shed light on the truth about the virgin birth of Jesus Christ. Does the Church Lie About Isaiah's Prophecy Concerning the Virgin Birth? One cornerstone of the Christian belief in Jesus’ virgin birth is the prophecy in Isaiah 7:14:  "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel."  Detractors, including some liberal theologians, argue that the original text of Isaiah uses a term that might be more accurately translated as "young woman" rather than "virgin." They claim that the Church has manipulated this translation to bolster the doctrine of the virgin birth. Let me grant them the benefit of the doubt for the sake of argument and explore why this interpretation does not negate the concept of the virgin birth. The Virgin Bir...

As the yuletide season approaches, a perennial debate gains momentum: "Is Christmas really a Christian holiday?" Critics often claim that Christmas is a pagan adaptation, asserting that its celebration began centuries after Christ. Astonishingly, some within the Christian community echo this sentiment. In this post, I will shatter this misconception and prove that not only is Christmas deeply Christian, but its celebration was initiated by none other than God Himself. The First Christmas Celebration: A Heavenly Event, not a Pagan Ritual The portrayal of Christmas as a borrowed pagan practice is a narrative that has been amplified not just by secular media but, sadly, even by some Christian denominations. This pervasive myth posits that the celebration of Christ's birth is a pagan ritual, institutionalized by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century. However, to find the real roots of the first Christmas, we need to go back to the biblical account in the Gospel of Luke.  Luk...

The word 'epiphany' is often used casually to describe a sudden, profound realization or comprehension. But in the Christian tradition, Epiphany is far more than an illuminating moment.  It is a defining point in the story of salvation—the days that mark the grand revelation of Jesus Christ to the world.  The Oxford Dictionary defines Epiphany as the "Christian festival held on 6 January, in memory of the coming of the Magi to the baby Jesus."  In theological terms, Epiphany is the manifestation of Jesus Christ to the world. Also known as Theophany, the word epiphany literally means the "manifestation of God." Events that Define Epiphany Epiphany commemorates three pivotal events that serve to identify Jesus Christ to the world:  The visit of the Magi  The Baptism of Jesus  The first miracle at the Wedding at Cana  The feast is variably called the 'Twelfth Day,' the 'Three Kings Day,' or the 'Feast of the Epiphany.' Both Eastern and W...

The Bible opens the story of the Magi by identifying their place of origin: "Magi from the East." But what does "the East" refer to? Most historians and scholars generally speculate that they came from Persia, Babylon, or even the Far East.  The Magi saw a unique star and took this celestial phenomenon as a significant event, enough to set out on a journey.  These Magi were likely part of an ancient priestly class skilled in astronomy and astrology, disciplines not yet separated into distinct categories as they are today.  By following the star, they showed a direct and straightforward acceptance of what, to them, was a divine sign.  This faithfulness and recognition of the divine are worth pondering in today's world, where skepticism often overshadows wonder and awe. A Mysterious Visit: Gifts, Worship, and Divine Guidance Upon their arrival in Bethlehem, the Magi visited baby Jesus, presented Him with gifts, worshipped Him, and left after receiving a divine war...

Astrology is a practice that has been used across various cultures to make predictions about the future based on the positions of celestial bodies.  However, the Bible explicitly cautions against the use of astrologers and stargazers to predict one's future.  The book of Isaiah is particularly condemning, stating that not only are astrologers ineffective at predicting future events, but they also can't even save themselves. This strong biblical stance against astrology is not to be taken lightly.  In a society where horoscopes and zodiac signs are often looked to for guidance, the Bible offers a word of caution: human attempts to foresee the future are futile and misguided. The Problem of Prediction: The Lotto Argument A common sense argument against astrology is the question, "Can any astrologer predict the next lotto numbers?"  If astrology truly had the power to foretell future events, wouldn't we have more concrete evidence of its accuracy? The inability to pr...

Many of us are familiar with the story of the Magi and their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. While at first glance these may seem like ordinary, albeit valuable gifts, a deeper look reveals layers of prophetic and spiritual significance.  The Magi, through their careful selection of these particular gifts, offered a profound declaration to the world about the true identity of the baby lying in a humble manger in Bethlehem. Gold: A Proclamation of Royal Divinity Gold has long been associated with kingship and nobility. In ancient times, it was the purview of the royals, a symbol of sovereign power and wealth.  This makes it all the more astounding that the Magi chose to present this precious metal to a newborn lying in a manger—far from a royal palace or even a comfortable home.  The message could not be clearer: they recognized and proclaimed Jesus as King. This anticipates Jesus' future teachings about the Kingdom of God—a heavenly realm over which He would reign...

For centuries, people have pondered on the details of Jesus' birth. Even today, skeptics and historians question the narratives given in the New Testament, proposing alternative theories, or dismissing the Biblical accounts altogether.  However, the Christian faith is founded on the Scriptures, and we find that the Bible answers the question about Jesus’ birthplace in a most unambiguous manner.  Jesus was born in Bethlehem. This simple yet profound fact is not only a declaration of history, but also the fulfillment of prophecy, dispelling myths, and confirming faith. The Old Testament Prophecy: Micah 5:2 About 700 years before Jesus was born, the Prophet Micah foretold His birthplace:  ‘But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are of old, from ancient times” (Micah 5:2).  Notice that the prophecy is incredibly specific. Bethlehem, although small and seemin...

Christmas, at its core, is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. This is not just another birthday celebration but the marking of the arrival of the promised Savior in human history.  For Christians, this is not simply an annual festivity filled with lights and gifts but an eternal reminder that God broke into human history in a definitive and transformative way.  The significance of this is underlined in the Bible, where the event is proclaimed as "good news of great joy" (Luke 2:10). God's Promise After The Fall The human story began with Adam and Eve living in perfect harmony with God. But the Fall disrupted this harmony, introducing sin into the world.  Yet, God, in His infinite compassion, did not abandon humanity. Right after the Fall, He promised a Savior who would restore the broken relationship between God and humankind (Genesis 3:15). The Fulfillment of the Promise In the fullness of time, God fulfilled His promise by enabling Mary, a young virgin, to co...

As Christmas lights illuminate streets and hymns fill the air, an inevitable question often surfaces: "When exactly was Jesus born?"  While popular culture and tradition might steer us towards December 25, the Bible remains conspicuously silent on the specific date. Yet, should this be a cause for skepticism or doubt?  In this blog post, I will delve into why the absence of a specific birth date for Jesus in the Bible should not only be accepted but also appreciated within the larger framework of Christian apologetics. Why The Bible Does Not Specify Jesus' Birthdate The Bible provides an astonishingly detailed account of the life of Jesus, His teachings, miracles, crucifixion, and resurrection.  However, it remains silent on His precise date of birth. The Gospel writers focused on the aspects of Jesus’ life that were most crucial to our understanding of salvation and God's kingdom. As John 21:25 aptly states,  "If everything about Jesus were written down, I suppo...

The Star of Bethlehem, also known as the Christmas Star, holds a special place in Christian lore. It was this radiant celestial body that guided the Magi to the birthplace of Jesus in Bethlehem.  As a cornerstone in the story of the Nativity, the star has been the subject of numerous interpretations and debates over the centuries.  Here is why I firmly believe the Star of Bethlehem was a miraculous event, rooted in prophecy, and undeniably real. Astronomical Theories: An Incomplete Explanation With the strides we have made in astronomy, scientists have proposed multiple theories attempting to explain the Star of Bethlehem.  Some suggest it was not a star at all but rather an astronomical event caused by the alignment of planets, often referred to as a "conjunction."  However, these scientific explanations, while intriguing, fall short of capturing the essence of the Biblical account. Metaphorical Interpretations: Missing the Mark There are also those who see the star...

To truly understand the message of Christmas, we need to go back to the original Christmas night, when an angelic host appeared to shepherds in the fields, declaring the birth of Jesus.  This celestial proclamation encapsulates the essence of Christmas, providing a summary that is as relevant today as it was two thousand years ago. Freedom From Fear The first words of the angels were, "Do not be afraid" (Luke 2:10). In a world that thrives on fear—fear of the unknown, fear of the other, fear of the future—the birth of Christ brings a message of divine reassurance.  The Savior has come, and because He has come, fear no longer needs to rule our lives. As 1 John 4:18 says, "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear." Good News of Great Joy The angelic message was not just news; it was "good news of great joy" (Luke 2:10). In a world that often seems filled with sadness and despair, the birth of Christ is a beacon of hope and joy.  The Savior ...

During every holiday season, the question of the "pagan" origins of Christmas traditions resurfaces in various discussions.  While it is understandable to hear such claims from skeptics and non-believers, it is surprising when these views are held by those who identify themselves as Christians.  This blog post is aimed at those Christian sects that label certain Christmas traditions as pagan practices. I will focus on three main aspects often criticized as pagan: Christmas carols, gift giving, and the Christmas tree. Is Christmas Carol a Pagan Practice? Absolutely not. The birth of Jesus was celebrated with the world's first Christmas carol, performed by none other than a heavenly host of angels. As documented in the Gospel of Luke:  "Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests'" (Luke 2:13-14, NIV).  The angels initiated th...

There are 22 chapters in the Book of Revelation, making it the concluding book of the New Testament.  Traditionally attributed to the Apostle John, this prophetic work was penned while he was in exile on the island of Patmos.  The book is characterized by its apocalyptic nature, rich symbolism, and its focus on the end times and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. A Summary of the 22 chapters in the Book of Revelation Let us briefly explore the overarching themes of Revelation:  The Prologue: Revelation starts with a blessing upon those who read, hear, and keep the words of the prophecy. John introduces the vision as coming from Jesus Christ, revealing things that will soon take place.  Seven Letters to Seven Churches: Chapters 2 and 3 consist of seven letters addressed to seven churches in Asia Minor. Each letter contains a specific message from Christ, addressing the church's strengths, weaknesses, challenges, and promises.  Visions of Heaven and the Thr...

There is only one chapter in the Book of Jude, but within this singular chapter, there's a wealth of wisdom and warning.  Traditionally attributed to Jude, this epistle is directed towards Christians who were facing false teachings and moral compromise within their communities. A Summary of the Single Chapter in the Book of Jude Here is a brief exploration of the content of Jude:  A Call to Contend for the Faith: Jude's primary concern is that the believers earnestly contend for the faith once delivered to the saints. This is in light of certain individuals who had crept into the church unnoticed, people who turned God's grace into a license for immorality.  Examples from the Past: Jude provides historical examples to underline the consequences of disbelief and rebellion. He cites the Israelites who were rescued from Egypt but later rebelled, the angels who did not keep their proper dwelling, and the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah as a warning against such behaviors.  ...

Like its predecessor 2 John, there is only one chapter in the Book of 3 John. It is another personal letter penned by the Apostle John, this time addressed to Gaius, a beloved fellow Christian.  Within this concise correspondence, John expresses his commendation, concerns, and hopes related to the early Christian community's dynamics and behavior. A Summary of the Single Chapter in the Book of 3 John Let us delve briefly into 3 John's content:  Joy over Faithfulness: John begins his letter by expressing his profound joy upon hearing that Gaius is walking in the truth. Such faithfulness signifies a life that aligns with the teachings of Christ, which was always a primary concern for the Apostle.  Commendation of Hospitality: Gaius is particularly commended for his hospitality towards traveling Christian teachers, especially those who were strangers to him. This act of kindness was seen as serving the wider Christian community and advancing the cause of the Gospel.  ...

There is just one chapter in the Book of 2 John. This brief yet profound epistle is written by the Apostle John and is addressed to "the chosen lady and her children," which some scholars interpret as a specific woman and her family, while others view it as a symbolic reference to a local church and its members.  Regardless of the specific recipient, the core message of the letter is unmistakable: to walk in truth and love. A Summary of the Single Chapter in the Book of 2 John Here is a brief look at the content of 2 John:  Walking in Truth and Love: Throughout this chapter, John emphasizes the significance of walking in love, which he defines as living according to God's commands. He commends the recipients for their faithfulness to the truth and exhorts them to continue in it.  Warning Against Deceivers: A central concern for John in this letter is the presence of deceivers who deny the incarnation of Jesus Christ. He warns the recipients not to receive or even greet s...

There are five chapters in the Book of 1 John. This epistle, attributed to the Apostle John, focuses on the foundational aspects of Christian faith, love, and assurance.  John emphasizes the importance of fellowship with God, distinguishing between the children of God and those of the world, and assuring believers of their eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ. A Summary of the Five Chapters in the Book of 1 John Here is an overview of 1 John:  The Word of Life (chapter 1): John starts by presenting Jesus as the eternal life made manifest. He discusses the concept of fellowship with God and with one another, emphasizing that this fellowship is based on walking in the light and confessing our sins.  Obedience and Love (chapter 2): John underlines the importance of obeying God's commands and loving one another. He contrasts the love of the Father with the love of the world. The chapter also delves into the dangers of antichrists, those who deny Jesus as the Christ....

There are three chapters in the Book of 2 Peter. This epistle, penned by the Apostle Peter, serves as a cautionary message against false teachers and a call for believers to grow in their knowledge and understanding of Jesus Christ.  By emphasizing the reliability of the prophetic word and underscoring the importance of moral excellence, Peter aims to equip Christians to combat heresies and live godly lives. A Summary of the Three Chapters in the Book of 2 Peter Here is a brief look at the content of 2 Peter:  Growth in Christian Virtue (chapter 1): Peter commences the letter by emphasizing the divine power that grants believers everything they need for life and godliness.  He then outlines a progression of virtues that believers should diligently seek, from faith to love. The chapter culminates with Peter attesting to the authenticity of the prophetic message, grounded in his firsthand experience of the transfiguration of Jesus.  False Prophets and Teachers (chapte...

There are five chapters in the Book of 1 Peter. Written by the Apostle Peter, this epistle is addressed to the "exiles" scattered throughout various regions, referring to Christians facing persecution and hardships.  Peter's letter serves as an encouragement, guiding believers on how to navigate suffering while keeping their hope firmly anchored in Christ. A Summary of the Five Chapters in the Book of 1 Peter Here is an overview of the content found in 1 Peter:  Living Hope and Holy Living (chapter 1) : Peter opens with a message of gratitude for the living hope believers possess through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He calls for a holy life, emphasizing that believers have been ransomed by the precious blood of Christ.  Living Stones and a Chosen People (chapter 2): Using the imagery of living stones, Peter describes believers as being built up into a spiritual house. He emphasizes the privileges of believers as a chosen race and a royal priesthood. Peter also speak...

There are five chapters in the Book of James. Traditionally believed to have been written by James, the brother of Jesus and a leader in the Jerusalem church, this epistle is a practical guide on Christian living.  Addressed to the "twelve tribes in the Dispersion," James touches upon various aspects of faith, especially its manifestation in good works. A Summary of the Five Chapters in the Book of James Here is a brief glimpse of the content of James:  Trials and Temptations (chapter 1): James begins by encouraging believers to consider trials as joy because they produce steadfastness. He also touches upon the idea that God doesn't tempt anyone, and every person is lured by their own desires.  Faith and Works (chapter 2): James famously states that faith without works is dead. He emphasizes the importance of showing one's faith through actions and cites Abraham and Rahab as examples of individuals who demonstrated their faith through works.  Taming the Tongue and W...

There are 13 chapters in the Book of Hebrews. This New Testament epistle is unique because its authorship remains a subject of debate among scholars.  While traditionally attributed to the Apostle Paul, other names like Barnabas, Apollos, or even Priscilla have been suggested.  Regardless of its authorship, Hebrews stands out for its profound theological depth, emphasizing the supremacy of Jesus Christ over all things. A Summary of the 13 Chapters in the Book of Hebrews Here is a brief overview of the content of Hebrews:  The Superiority of Christ (chapters 1-4): The author begins by highlighting Jesus as the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His nature, superior to angels.  Jesus is presented as the ultimate high priest, greater than Moses, and the only one who can provide true rest for God's people.  Christ as the Ultimate High Priest (chapters 5-10): This section delves into the high priesthood of Jesus. Contrasted with the Levitical pr...

There is just one Chapter in the Book of Philemon. This epistle, penned by the Apostle Paul, is a personal letter addressed to Philemon, a believer in Colossae.  The central theme of the letter revolves around Onesimus, a runaway slave who had come to faith in Jesus Christ during his time with Paul. A Summary of the Single Chapter in the Book of Philemon Here is an overview of the content of Philemon:  Intercession for Onesimus (chapter 1): The letter starts with Paul, imprisoned at the time, expressing his affection for Philemon and appreciation for his faith and love towards the saints.  Paul then introduces the subject of Onesimus, who, though once unprofitable to Philemon, has now become beneficial to both Philemon and Paul.  Paul expresses his wish to keep Onesimus with him but acknowledges the need to have Philemon's consent.  He appeals to Philemon to welcome Onesimus back, not just as a slave, but more importantly, as a beloved brother in Christ.  ...

There are three chapters in the Book of Titus. Authored by the Apostle Paul, this epistle is addressed to Titus, a trusted colleague and fellow worker in the gospel.  The letter was written to guide Titus in his responsibilities as he oversaw the churches on the island of Crete.  In this succinct yet impactful letter, Paul emphasizes the importance of sound doctrine, godly living, and the qualifications for church leaders. A Summary of the Three Chapters in the Book of Titus Here is a concise overview of the content of Titus:  Introduction and Qualifications for Elders (chapter 1): Paul commences by affirming his apostolic authority and the hope of eternal life.  He then delineates the qualifications for elders, emphasizing their moral character and ability to teach sound doctrine. Paul also warns against false teachers and the need to correct them.  Godly Living for Various Groups (chapter 2): Paul provides guidelines for how groups within the church – older ...