Over the last couple of months, our society has focused a great deal on racism, especially with respect to African Americans. Although our present issue is complex and polarizing, what the Bible teaches on this subject is straightforward and clear. Let us begin with creation itself. Genesis 1:12, 20, 25. The earth brought forth vegetation,… read more»

Have you ever wondered why we sing songs about Emmanuel at Christmas, or why it was said that the Messiah would be called by this name and yet he never was? I have. Isaiah 7 foretells of what the angel told Joseph in Matthew 1:18-25. Before we read Isaiah, the following is important to know…. read more»

For those of you who drive, have you ever been in the left hand lane on the highway and the car in front of you is driving slower than you want? For those of you who don’t drive yet, you can imagine the classic slow walker in school or at a grocery store? It can… read more»

One of the major themes of today is that of people feeling “different” and “not wanted.” Fears run rampant of abandonment, not being important enough to be welcomed, and feeling like one is “in the way” or a “bother” all the time. In this state of thinking, it is difficult for us to recognize the… read more»

Joel W Hemphill in his book Glory to God in the Highest provides a description of Socrates that is eye popping. While reading Joel’s description, remember that Socrates is the forerunner and teacher of Plato and then Plato of Aristotle. “Not only were Socrates’ fellow Athenians disturbed by his personal appearance, lack of hygiene, and… read more»

Last time, we looked at the Hebrew manuscripts from which we derive our Old Testament translations.  This time, we will turn our attention to the Greek manuscripts that ultimately result in our New Testament translations.  Getting an understanding of manuscripts, both their discovery and comparison, will help explain why certain translations of the Bible are… read more»

To persevere. To endure. These two words are similar in meaning. They mean to remain, to bear up under pressure, or to have the ability to withstand hardship or adversity. They especially mean the ability for a person to sustain a prolonged stressful effort, activity, or suffering. As you are reading this, you may be… read more»

This period’s beatitude is like a living enigma in my mind and without a living God makes absolutely no sense. Matthew 5:4 says, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” The word “mourn” can also mean sadness.  Let’s attempt to read in our definition of “blessed” from my last article. “Happy” are… read more»

Change can happen quickly! In recent days, daily life has been turned upside down and challenged in ways none of us ever expected. Shortages and closures have forced us to realize that we can’t take things for granted. On top of all this, social distancing and isolation can lead to loneliness and anxiety for many… read more»

The recent situation with the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic and the entire world’s response to this disease has caused me to look more closely at our need for each other.  Mankind was not meant to be alone.  We were designed to be interdependent on one another.  From the very start when Adam, the first man, was… read more»