What About Abortion?
Many Bible Scriptures are often cited in abortion debates (pro-life vs. pro-choice). However, Galatians 5:20 is often overlooked. Pharmakeia (think pharmacy), translated as “witchcraft” (cf. NIV) actually refers to drugs…
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Thankful For His Service | Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12 Exegetical Paper
This prophecy of Isaiah foretells of the forthcoming Servant of the LORD who is a kingly, even divine, Messiah. Though the nation of Israel was supposed to be to the collective Servant of the LORD through whom He would bring about justice and salvation to the nations, they rebelled and transgressed their covenant with YHWH. The unimpressive, unattractive, humble, despised, suffering Servant was to come and make a substitutionary, atoning self-sacrifice that would heal the relationship between the LORD and His covenant people, bringing שָׁלוֹם (shalom).
Why Was Jesus Named “Jesus”?
Joseph is told to name Jesus “Jesus” because Jesus would *save* his people from their sins — our self-separation from/ rebellion against/dysfunctional relationship with God (cf. Mt 1:21)…
Do You Like Dead Mice? | Loving God On God’s Own Terms
Brothers and sisters, if we claim to love God, does it not make sense to love God on God’s own terms?
Taking Up The LORD’s Name In Vain: What Does It Mean?
Brothers and sisters, may we always be careful when using the LORD’s name. Let us not only avoid using God’s name in swears (in both senses of the word), but let us also use caution when aiming to attach divine authority to our words.
The Game of Life: Four Necessary Worldview Questions
What does one need to know to play any game? (1) How does it start (origins)? (2) What are the rules (morality)? (3) What is the goal (meaning)? (4) How does it end (destiny)? Every worldview has to — at least — address each of these questions. The answers that a Christian worldview provides are much more…
Believe in Something? Even if it Means Sacrificing Everything?
Is every “something” worth believing in? My issue is not with the causes for which Kaepernick is protesting, my issue is with Nike peddling poor philosophy for profit. This is no maxim to live by. But, the One who is truly worthy to be believed in…
Foundational: Theology & Philosophy
“Truth,” “Justice,” “Right,” Wrong,” “Success.” Can’t we see how people can use these same key terms but have different definitions? I suspect conversations about controversial issues would be a bit easier if our conceptions of such key terms did not contradict. Perhaps unbeknownst to us, our disagreement often runs much deeper.
“Grace” & “Faith” | Gifts Have Strings Attached
What is “grace”? What is “faith”? In the first-century, these were common terms in the intricate patronage system that structured society. Patrons would do “favors” (graces) for needy clients (“friends”). These clients were to respond in good “faith” (e.g., gratitude, public praise, loyalty…
Straight Outta Context
Don’t you hate when people intentionally twist your words? Or when you people take what you say the wrong way?… If so, regardless of our worldview, may we keep this in mind whenever we try to interpret the words written in the Bible.