Year
Resolutions: Man's and God's (December 28, 2023)
With the new year invariably come New Year's resolutions—and days or weeks later, a great deal of failure in keeping them! The idea of making resolutions to improve oneself is commendable, but we should carefully consider the kind of resolutions we make. Ronny Graham suggests that we take up godly resolutions, so that we "put on" the righteous character of the new man.
With the new year invariably come New Year's resolutions—and days or weeks later, a great deal of failure in keeping them! The idea of making resolutions to improve oneself is commendable, but we should carefully consider the kind of resolutions we make. Ronny Graham suggests that we take up godly resolutions, so that we "put on" the righteous character of the new man.
Who Were the Wise Men? (December 21, 2023)
Mentioned in Matthew 2, the wise men or magi have been mysterious figures since their appearance two thousand years ago. For centuries, scholars and Bible students have tried to determine who they were, and their speculations have varied widely. Careful research into the biblical description of their visit to the young Jesus can provide satisfying answers to this longtime question.
Mentioned in Matthew 2, the wise men or magi have been mysterious figures since their appearance two thousand years ago. For centuries, scholars and Bible students have tried to determine who they were, and their speculations have varied widely. Careful research into the biblical description of their visit to the young Jesus can provide satisfying answers to this longtime question.
Are You a Christian? (December 14, 2023)
Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet contains Juliet's famous lines: "What's in a name? That which we call a rose/By any other name would smell as sweet." True, a person's essential character means more than a name. Yet, what about the term "Christian," which a third of the world's people appropriate for themselves, no matter how divergent their beliefs? David Grabbe explores whether Christ's disciples should call themselves "Christian."
Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet contains Juliet's famous lines: "What's in a name? That which we call a rose/By any other name would smell as sweet." True, a person's essential character means more than a name. Yet, what about the term "Christian," which a third of the world's people appropriate for themselves, no matter how divergent their beliefs? David Grabbe explores whether Christ's disciples should call themselves "Christian."
Israel's Long War (November 29, 2023)
Hamas' October 7, 2023, attack on Israel drew the world's eyes back to the longtime conflict over the Holy Land. While the present war has killed and wounded thousands, it may be just another flare-up of an enmity that stretches back nearly four thousand years. Richard Ritenbaugh advises Christians to temper their expectations of it signaling Christ's return since "wars and rumors of wars" are but "the beginning of sorrows."
Hamas' October 7, 2023, attack on Israel drew the world's eyes back to the longtime conflict over the Holy Land. While the present war has killed and wounded thousands, it may be just another flare-up of an enmity that stretches back nearly four thousand years. Richard Ritenbaugh advises Christians to temper their expectations of it signaling Christ's return since "wars and rumors of wars" are but "the beginning of sorrows."
Ingratitude (November 24, 2023)
Why do some people gripe, complain, and feel slighted even when others have jumped through hoops to smooth their way? The answer may be ingratitude. A reluctance to thank others - particularly God - for their help reveals a self-centered and inconsiderate attitude. In recounting a personal story, Mark Schindler shows how ingratitude can stifle and eventually derail our relationship with God if we let it.
Why do some people gripe, complain, and feel slighted even when others have jumped through hoops to smooth their way? The answer may be ingratitude. A reluctance to thank others - particularly God - for their help reveals a self-centered and inconsiderate attitude. In recounting a personal story, Mark Schindler shows how ingratitude can stifle and eventually derail our relationship with God if we let it.
The Elements of Motivation (Part Four): Obligation (November 16, 2023)
No one likes to be indebted to someone else. However, when we accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, and He pays for our sins by His blood, we owe Him our lives! But rather than being onerous, our spiritual obligation produces good, leading to a deeply held, personal loyalty to Him. John Ritenbaugh explains that our redemption should make us strive to please Him in every facet of life.
No one likes to be indebted to someone else. However, when we accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, and He pays for our sins by His blood, we owe Him our lives! But rather than being onerous, our spiritual obligation produces good, leading to a deeply held, personal loyalty to Him. John Ritenbaugh explains that our redemption should make us strive to please Him in every facet of life.
The Seven Churches (Part Four): Smyrna (November 9, 2023)
The letter to Smyrna contains a rarity among the seven churches: Its Author, Jesus Christ, mentions no criticism of its poor, persecuted members! Instead, He calls them spiritually rich and encourages them to be faithful, even unto death, while they suffer severe troubles. Richard Ritenbaugh probes the paradox of the letter to Smyrna, that those who please God due to their righteousness often suffer most.
The letter to Smyrna contains a rarity among the seven churches: Its Author, Jesus Christ, mentions no criticism of its poor, persecuted members! Instead, He calls them spiritually rich and encourages them to be faithful, even unto death, while they suffer severe troubles. Richard Ritenbaugh probes the paradox of the letter to Smyrna, that those who please God due to their righteousness often suffer most.
1335 (Part One) (November 3, 2023)
The period just before and after Jesus Christ's death, resurrection, and ascension was a whirlwind of remarkable events that fulfilled numerous Old Testament prophecies. That time stretched from Jesus' raising of Lazarus to His ascension to heaven ten days before Pentecost, a span of roughly 75 days. Charles Whitaker considers the mindset of the early church, providing a comparison to aid us in handling the coming whirlwind of the end time.
The period just before and after Jesus Christ's death, resurrection, and ascension was a whirlwind of remarkable events that fulfilled numerous Old Testament prophecies. That time stretched from Jesus' raising of Lazarus to His ascension to heaven ten days before Pentecost, a span of roughly 75 days. Charles Whitaker considers the mindset of the early church, providing a comparison to aid us in handling the coming whirlwind of the end time.
Hating Evil, Fearing God (October 26, 2023)
II Corinthians 6:14-16 contains a strong warning against mixing evil with good. As Christians, we must be careful to avoid having anything to do with things like Halloween that are evil or glorify it, even if it is "just in fun." Highlighting Proverbs 8:13, David Grabbe explains how the fear of God plays a significant role in helping us rid evil from our lives.
II Corinthians 6:14-16 contains a strong warning against mixing evil with good. As Christians, we must be careful to avoid having anything to do with things like Halloween that are evil or glorify it, even if it is "just in fun." Highlighting Proverbs 8:13, David Grabbe explains how the fear of God plays a significant role in helping us rid evil from our lives.
God's Plan and the False Immortal Soul Doctrine (October 18, 2023)
Most nominal Christians and their denominations believe in the Doctrine of the Immortal Soul, but it is a weak reed on which to lean. The Bible does not support it; instead, it teaches the exact opposite, contradicting Satan's argument to Eve that she will not surely die. Craig Sablich explains that it also fails to mesh with God's revealed Plan for humanity, based on God's perfect judgment and His gift of eternal life.
Most nominal Christians and their denominations believe in the Doctrine of the Immortal Soul, but it is a weak reed on which to lean. The Bible does not support it; instead, it teaches the exact opposite, contradicting Satan's argument to Eve that she will not surely die. Craig Sablich explains that it also fails to mesh with God's revealed Plan for humanity, based on God's perfect judgment and His gift of eternal life.
Be There Next Year (October 11, 2023)
Members of God's church usually return home from the Feast of Tabernacles with renewed spiritual vigor. Even so, we are painfully aware that some members fall away each year. John Ritenbaugh writes that we must actively seek God and His righteousness to ensure that we will be around to enjoy next year's Feast.
Members of God's church usually return home from the Feast of Tabernacles with renewed spiritual vigor. Even so, we are painfully aware that some members fall away each year. John Ritenbaugh writes that we must actively seek God and His righteousness to ensure that we will be around to enjoy next year's Feast.
The Feast of Tabernacles ( 2023)
The Tent of God (September 21, 2023)
Mentions of tents or tabernacles are fairly common in Scripture, from the tents of the Patriarchs to God's Tabernacle in which He dwelt with the Israelites in the wilderness. Some of the Bible's heroes of faith humbly lived in tents for extended periods after living luxuriously in fine homes and palaces when younger. Ronny Graham discusses the spiritual meanings of this biblical image to those whom God has chosen in this age.
Mentions of tents or tabernacles are fairly common in Scripture, from the tents of the Patriarchs to God's Tabernacle in which He dwelt with the Israelites in the wilderness. Some of the Bible's heroes of faith humbly lived in tents for extended periods after living luxuriously in fine homes and palaces when younger. Ronny Graham discusses the spiritual meanings of this biblical image to those whom God has chosen in this age.
Azazel: Observations and Questions (September 13, 2023)
The apostle Paul writes in II Corinthians 4:7 that "we have this treasure [God's revelation] in earthen vessels," and this fact is never more noticeable than when we realize that we have believed something in error for many years. Why were we so blind? Why did God not open our eyes to the truth sooner? What is God trying to teach us? Pat Higgins ponders some observations and asks some questions in the wake of learning who the azazel goat truly represents.
The apostle Paul writes in II Corinthians 4:7 that "we have this treasure [God's revelation] in earthen vessels," and this fact is never more noticeable than when we realize that we have believed something in error for many years. Why were we so blind? Why did God not open our eyes to the truth sooner? What is God trying to teach us? Pat Higgins ponders some observations and asks some questions in the wake of learning who the azazel goat truly represents.
The Fall Holy Days (September 7, 2023)
In keeping God's Sabbath and annual holy days, the church of God has gained considerable insight into the biblical appointed times. While the springtime festivals primarily focus on Christ's work for and with His elect, the final four holy days, all occurring in the autumn, represent God's plan of salvation for humanity in general. John Reiss provides a theological and prophetic overview of the fall feasts of God.
In keeping God's Sabbath and annual holy days, the church of God has gained considerable insight into the biblical appointed times. While the springtime festivals primarily focus on Christ's work for and with His elect, the final four holy days, all occurring in the autumn, represent God's plan of salvation for humanity in general. John Reiss provides a theological and prophetic overview of the fall feasts of God.
This is Not God's World (August 30, 2023)
In several places in Scripture, God urges His people to come out of this world. Because He is the earth's and humanity's Creator, we may struggle with this command. But the world of which He speaks consists of society's anti-God religious, psychological, and philosophical systems whose beginnings reside in the Adversary, Satan the Devil. John Ritenbaugh suggests we thoroughly evaluate how much of this world still influences us.
In several places in Scripture, God urges His people to come out of this world. Because He is the earth's and humanity's Creator, we may struggle with this command. But the world of which He speaks consists of society's anti-God religious, psychological, and philosophical systems whose beginnings reside in the Adversary, Satan the Devil. John Ritenbaugh suggests we thoroughly evaluate how much of this world still influences us.
Where Have All the Babies Gone? (August 23, 2023)
Demography, the statistical study of human populations, has proven to be a reliable indicator of future societal and economic health. As one pundit opined, "Demography is destiny." Sadly, because too few babies are being born to maintain the current population, the prognosis for the Western world is not good. Joseph Baity argues that immigration will do little to stem the slide toward societal decline and eventual breakdown.
Demography, the statistical study of human populations, has proven to be a reliable indicator of future societal and economic health. As one pundit opined, "Demography is destiny." Sadly, because too few babies are being born to maintain the current population, the prognosis for the Western world is not good. Joseph Baity argues that immigration will do little to stem the slide toward societal decline and eventual breakdown.
The Seven Churches (Part Three): Ephesus (August 16, 2023)
Jesus Christ's letter to the church in Ephesus (Revelation 2:1-7) speaks of members who are zealous and bold in their defense of the truth God had revealed to them but who are not without flaw. Their Savior criticizes them for leaving their first love, of which they need to repent or else. Richard Ritenbaugh urges modern church members, many of whom have also battled apostasy, to apply this epistle's warning personally.
Jesus Christ's letter to the church in Ephesus (Revelation 2:1-7) speaks of members who are zealous and bold in their defense of the truth God had revealed to them but who are not without flaw. Their Savior criticizes them for leaving their first love, of which they need to repent or else. Richard Ritenbaugh urges modern church members, many of whom have also battled apostasy, to apply this epistle's warning personally.
How Does Christ Fulfill the Law? (August 9, 2023)
Matthew 5:17 poses a major headache for Bible translators who believe that Christ's sinless life and sacrificial death did away with the law, so Christians do not need to keep it. Jesus, however, consistently teaches that God's law is still in force. By defining a few critical Greek words, Charles Whitaker explains that our Savior meant exactly what He said: He came to fulfill the law, not destroy it.
Matthew 5:17 poses a major headache for Bible translators who believe that Christ's sinless life and sacrificial death did away with the law, so Christians do not need to keep it. Jesus, however, consistently teaches that God's law is still in force. By defining a few critical Greek words, Charles Whitaker explains that our Savior meant exactly what He said: He came to fulfill the law, not destroy it.
The Lamb of Revelation (Part Two) (August 4, 2023)
The book of Revelation frequently uses "the Lamb" to refer to Jesus Christ, and the reason for this title becomes clear as the book unfolds. Revelation speaks of a long-awaited redemption that will occur at Christ's return - a redemption, not from sin's penalty, but one that returns ownership of all things to the rightful Heir, our Savior and King. David Grabbe explains.
The book of Revelation frequently uses "the Lamb" to refer to Jesus Christ, and the reason for this title becomes clear as the book unfolds. Revelation speaks of a long-awaited redemption that will occur at Christ's return - a redemption, not from sin's penalty, but one that returns ownership of all things to the rightful Heir, our Savior and King. David Grabbe explains.
Playing With Fire (July 19, 2023)
Solomon uses the analogy of burning oneself to describe sinning, which is particularly apt in describing the pain and scars left by sexual sins. Fulfilling our desires outside the bounds of what God allows is playing with fire: The sexually immoral must deal with perverse thinking, hurt, distrust, and betrayal, not to mention sexual diseases. John Reid explains.
Solomon uses the analogy of burning oneself to describe sinning, which is particularly apt in describing the pain and scars left by sexual sins. Fulfilling our desires outside the bounds of what God allows is playing with fire: The sexually immoral must deal with perverse thinking, hurt, distrust, and betrayal, not to mention sexual diseases. John Reid explains.
What, Me Worry? (July 12, 2023)
It is not uncommon to worry about one's financial situation. It has never been easy for most people to make ends meet, causing anxiety. Yet, in His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus Christ commands us not to worry about our lives, food, drink, or clothing. Considering what life was like in His day, Mike Ford explains, Jesus' simple solution to this common problem will work for Christians just as well now as then.
It is not uncommon to worry about one's financial situation. It has never been easy for most people to make ends meet, causing anxiety. Yet, in His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus Christ commands us not to worry about our lives, food, drink, or clothing. Considering what life was like in His day, Mike Ford explains, Jesus' simple solution to this common problem will work for Christians just as well now as then.
In the Grip of Distrust (July 7, 2023)
Most are aware of a phenomenon that too often takes place within the church of God: If an attitude or trend develops in the world, we can expect it will soon enter the church. Society today struggles under an attitude of deep distrust for institutions and leaders. John Ritenbaugh explains that, in the church, this attitude has led to an increase of independent Christians, a situation contrary to the concept of unity in the Body of Christ.
Most are aware of a phenomenon that too often takes place within the church of God: If an attitude or trend develops in the world, we can expect it will soon enter the church. Society today struggles under an attitude of deep distrust for institutions and leaders. John Ritenbaugh explains that, in the church, this attitude has led to an increase of independent Christians, a situation contrary to the concept of unity in the Body of Christ.
I Versus We (June 29, 2023)
The Three Musketeers famously said, "All for one, and one for all!" Humanity, however, more readily says either, "All for me!" or "All for us!" These two statements represent opposing worldviews, individualism and collectivism, and they fight for dominance in cultures worldwide. Richard Ritenbaugh discusses how these viewpoints affect our world and how their struggle may play a prominent role in the time of the end.
The Three Musketeers famously said, "All for one, and one for all!" Humanity, however, more readily says either, "All for me!" or "All for us!" These two statements represent opposing worldviews, individualism and collectivism, and they fight for dominance in cultures worldwide. Richard Ritenbaugh discusses how these viewpoints affect our world and how their struggle may play a prominent role in the time of the end.
The Seven Churches (Part Two): Interpretations (June 22, 2023)
Traditionally, the modern church of God has taught that the seven churches of Revelation 2-3 are types of seven successive eras from apostolic times to Christ's return. Is this a valid belief? Does the Bible support such an interpretation? Richard Ritenbaugh discusses how the church-eras interpretation compares to three other readings of these enigmatic letters.
Traditionally, the modern church of God has taught that the seven churches of Revelation 2-3 are types of seven successive eras from apostolic times to Christ's return. Is this a valid belief? Does the Bible support such an interpretation? Richard Ritenbaugh discusses how the church-eras interpretation compares to three other readings of these enigmatic letters.
The Lamb of Revelation (Part One) (June 15, 2023)
Nothing is as cute and innocent as a little lamb. When people think of Christ as a lamb, these attributes bleed over into their conception of the Son of God. Yet, in Revelation, we see a far different the Lamb of God, one of wrath and judgment. David Grabbe focuses on an overlooked aspect of the lamb as a biblical symbol: as playing a significant role in redemption.
Nothing is as cute and innocent as a little lamb. When people think of Christ as a lamb, these attributes bleed over into their conception of the Son of God. Yet, in Revelation, we see a far different the Lamb of God, one of wrath and judgment. David Grabbe focuses on an overlooked aspect of the lamb as a biblical symbol: as playing a significant role in redemption.
Elisha, the Young Men, and the She-Bears (June 9, 2023)
The prophet Elisha's encounter with the youths of Bethel poses a problem for some Bible readers. Elisha's curse and the subsequent she-bear attack seem excessive to critics. How could a prophet of God act with such cruel vengeance against mere children? Ted Bowling examines what the text of II Kings 2:23-24 actually relates versus what people assume it says.
The prophet Elisha's encounter with the youths of Bethel poses a problem for some Bible readers. Elisha's curse and the subsequent she-bear attack seem excessive to critics. How could a prophet of God act with such cruel vengeance against mere children? Ted Bowling examines what the text of II Kings 2:23-24 actually relates versus what people assume it says.
A Truth About Revelation 2 and 3 (May 24, 2023)
The church of God has long taught that the letters to the seven churches in Revelation 2 and 3 refer to seven church eras from the apostles' day to Christ's return. While such an interpretation may be possible, the Bible itself does not indicate anything of the sort. John Ritenbaugh provides evidence from Revelation that the primary interpretation concerns all the churches extant during the end time.
The church of God has long taught that the letters to the seven churches in Revelation 2 and 3 refer to seven church eras from the apostles' day to Christ's return. While such an interpretation may be possible, the Bible itself does not indicate anything of the sort. John Ritenbaugh provides evidence from Revelation that the primary interpretation concerns all the churches extant during the end time.
A Matter of Trust (May 17, 2023)
After decades of speculation on its impact on society - some dismissive, some dystopian - artificial intelligence (AI) is now a reality. Early users of AI chatbots have found them useful for various basic tasks, but the potential for societal disruption exists. Joseph Baity gathers the insights of several experts in the field who voice concerns about how this developing technology could be used harmfully in the coming years.
After decades of speculation on its impact on society - some dismissive, some dystopian - artificial intelligence (AI) is now a reality. Early users of AI chatbots have found them useful for various basic tasks, but the potential for societal disruption exists. Joseph Baity gathers the insights of several experts in the field who voice concerns about how this developing technology could be used harmfully in the coming years.
The Seven Churches (Part One): Overview (May 10, 2023)
The seven churches of Revelation 2-3 have intrigued Bible readers for centuries. Were they simply seven historical churches in Asia, do they represent eras from the first century to the end time, or do they have more immediate relevance to us today? Richard Ritenbaugh asks and answers some introductory questions about this fascinating section of the New Testament's premier prophetic book.
The seven churches of Revelation 2-3 have intrigued Bible readers for centuries. Were they simply seven historical churches in Asia, do they represent eras from the first century to the end time, or do they have more immediate relevance to us today? Richard Ritenbaugh asks and answers some introductory questions about this fascinating section of the New Testament's premier prophetic book.
The Fugitive Folk of Jacob's Trouble (May 3, 2023)
Old Testament Hebrew contains more than a handful of words that describe scattering, shattering, or dispersing. God uses several of these words in significant prophecies describing the scatterings of Israel and Judah and the far worse scattering during Jacob's Trouble. Charles Whitaker explains the differences between these words and their impact on our understanding of how terrible the coming scattering will be.
Old Testament Hebrew contains more than a handful of words that describe scattering, shattering, or dispersing. God uses several of these words in significant prophecies describing the scatterings of Israel and Judah and the far worse scattering during Jacob's Trouble. Charles Whitaker explains the differences between these words and their impact on our understanding of how terrible the coming scattering will be.
How Does Faith Establish the Law? (Part Two) (April 26, 2023)
For some theologians, certain Bible verses like Romans 3:31 are hard to ignore, but they do their best to avoid acknowledging their plain meanings. Much of nominal Christianity teaches that God's law has been done away, yet the apostle Paul contends that faith in Christ's sacrifice for sin actually confirms it! David Grabbe explains how justification by faith is a natural extension of the true purpose of the law.
For some theologians, certain Bible verses like Romans 3:31 are hard to ignore, but they do their best to avoid acknowledging their plain meanings. Much of nominal Christianity teaches that God's law has been done away, yet the apostle Paul contends that faith in Christ's sacrifice for sin actually confirms it! David Grabbe explains how justification by faith is a natural extension of the true purpose of the law.
What Sin Does (April 19, 2023)
Too many people today discount the idea of sin, considering it an invention of the clergy to control their flocks. But the sin in this world is driven by the attitudes of Satan, the Adversary of God and man, and it is the cause of the misery and destruction we witness everywhere. John Ritenbaugh catalogs the destructive power of sin, urging Christians to reject it and embrace the constructive righteousness of God.
Too many people today discount the idea of sin, considering it an invention of the clergy to control their flocks. But the sin in this world is driven by the attitudes of Satan, the Adversary of God and man, and it is the cause of the misery and destruction we witness everywhere. John Ritenbaugh catalogs the destructive power of sin, urging Christians to reject it and embrace the constructive righteousness of God.
The Formula for Overcoming (April 12, 2023)
When setting out to achieve a goal - especially significant and overarching ones - most of us fall prey to a common problem: We find ourselves intimidated and perhaps depressed by its seeming impossibility to reach. But there is an easy, proven formula for accomplishing even the loftiest goals, like overcoming sin and growing in God's character. Dr. David Maas provides a surefire method we can use to achieve even the most difficult of life's tasks.
When setting out to achieve a goal - especially significant and overarching ones - most of us fall prey to a common problem: We find ourselves intimidated and perhaps depressed by its seeming impossibility to reach. But there is an easy, proven formula for accomplishing even the loftiest goals, like overcoming sin and growing in God's character. Dr. David Maas provides a surefire method we can use to achieve even the most difficult of life's tasks.
Passover of the Most High God (April 5, 2023)
Among God's many names and titles is one that proclaims His supremacy over all others: "Most High God" or "God Most High." It is first used when Melchizedek meets Abram after his victory over the kings who had taken Lot and his family captive. David Grabbe traces the usage of this divine name through the Bible, illustrating how it should give us confidence in God's governance of our lives.
Among God's many names and titles is one that proclaims His supremacy over all others: "Most High God" or "God Most High." It is first used when Melchizedek meets Abram after his victory over the kings who had taken Lot and his family captive. David Grabbe traces the usage of this divine name through the Bible, illustrating how it should give us confidence in God's governance of our lives.
Weeds! (March 22, 2023)
Anyone who has traveled around the American Southeast has driven past kudzu-covered trees, fields, and telephone poles - or anything not fast enough to move out of its way! Drawing an analogy between the invasive, fast-growing kudzu and the thorns in the Parable of the Sower, Mike Ford shows how we must "weed out" detrimental habits that choke our lives and hinder us from producing godly fruit.
Anyone who has traveled around the American Southeast has driven past kudzu-covered trees, fields, and telephone poles - or anything not fast enough to move out of its way! Drawing an analogy between the invasive, fast-growing kudzu and the thorns in the Parable of the Sower, Mike Ford shows how we must "weed out" detrimental habits that choke our lives and hinder us from producing godly fruit.
Who Is America's Greatest Enemy? (March 15, 2023)
In the wake of a pandemic, war, and inflation, global conditions have worsened considerably over the past few years. At the same time, the United States, the world's superpower, finds itself divided and weakened by internal troubles. Richard Ritenbaugh analyzes America's enemies, foreign and domestic, and comes to a disturbing conclusion.
In the wake of a pandemic, war, and inflation, global conditions have worsened considerably over the past few years. At the same time, the United States, the world's superpower, finds itself divided and weakened by internal troubles. Richard Ritenbaugh analyzes America's enemies, foreign and domestic, and comes to a disturbing conclusion.
The Model Prayer (Part Nine): Kingdom, Power, Glory (March 8, 2023)
While some scholars doubt the authenticity of the final, glorifying clause of the Model Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13), it is theologically sound and would have been expected in the first century. It has parallels throughout God's Word. Richard Ritenbaugh explains that the prayer's doxology returns the focus to God and leaves the petitioner confident in God's ability to fulfill his requests.
While some scholars doubt the authenticity of the final, glorifying clause of the Model Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13), it is theologically sound and would have been expected in the first century. It has parallels throughout God's Word. Richard Ritenbaugh explains that the prayer's doxology returns the focus to God and leaves the petitioner confident in God's ability to fulfill his requests.
What Sin Is (February 22, 2023)
Over the last half-century, sin has gone out of vogue. In the secular public's mind, it is a religious matter and not something of much consequence. But it matters a great deal to God because it is not only the cause of all the misery in the world but also the reason humanity is so far from Him. John Ritenbaugh explains the basics of sin and what God wants us to do about it.
Over the last half-century, sin has gone out of vogue. In the secular public's mind, it is a religious matter and not something of much consequence. But it matters a great deal to God because it is not only the cause of all the misery in the world but also the reason humanity is so far from Him. John Ritenbaugh explains the basics of sin and what God wants us to do about it.
Waxing Cold (February 15, 2023)
We live in a time of turmoil when, as Jesus predicted, "nation will rise against nation." Perhaps we even become angry at seeing so much injustice and lawlessness ruin our society. As Christ's return nears, one thing we must not do is allow our love to grow cold. John Reiss provides strategies to maintain and even grow in love toward God and fellow man while the world descends into chaos.
We live in a time of turmoil when, as Jesus predicted, "nation will rise against nation." Perhaps we even become angry at seeing so much injustice and lawlessness ruin our society. As Christ's return nears, one thing we must not do is allow our love to grow cold. John Reiss provides strategies to maintain and even grow in love toward God and fellow man while the world descends into chaos.
How Does Faith Establish the Law? (Part One) (February 8, 2023)
When a moving song comes on the radio or our playlist, we sing with gusto the lyrics we know and mumble or hum the rest. Many Christians read the Bible the same way, readily agreeing with the parts that fit their beliefs but ignoring or even rejecting those that bother them. In this light, David Grabbe considers the apostle Paul's writings, in which, Peter warns, "are some things hard to understand."
When a moving song comes on the radio or our playlist, we sing with gusto the lyrics we know and mumble or hum the rest. Many Christians read the Bible the same way, readily agreeing with the parts that fit their beliefs but ignoring or even rejecting those that bother them. In this light, David Grabbe considers the apostle Paul's writings, in which, Peter warns, "are some things hard to understand."
American Education: A System Destroyed (January 26, 2023)
The American educational system used to be the envy of the world, but federal centralization and liberal policies have led to classroom chaos and low rankings compared to other nations' systems. While excellent schools created a vibrant economy and innovation, the now-fractured U.S. educational system bodes ill for the future. Joseph Baity sketches the timeline of its lamentable destruction.
The American educational system used to be the envy of the world, but federal centralization and liberal policies have led to classroom chaos and low rankings compared to other nations' systems. While excellent schools created a vibrant economy and innovation, the now-fractured U.S. educational system bodes ill for the future. Joseph Baity sketches the timeline of its lamentable destruction.
The Model Prayer (Part Eight): Testing and Deliverance (January 18, 2023)
The Model Prayer's final request, "And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one" (Matthew 6:13), appears to imply that the Father tempts us from time to time. But the apostle James is clear that God never tempts anyone (James 1:13). Richard Ritenbaugh explains that this controversial request is a victim of poor word choice by its translators, hiding an encouraging message of divine mercy and support.
The Model Prayer's final request, "And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one" (Matthew 6:13), appears to imply that the Father tempts us from time to time. But the apostle James is clear that God never tempts anyone (James 1:13). Richard Ritenbaugh explains that this controversial request is a victim of poor word choice by its translators, hiding an encouraging message of divine mercy and support.
All in All (January 11, 2023)
The apostle Paul uses the enigmatic phrase "all in all" a handful of times in his epistles. It is an expression of the fantastic oneness that the Father and Christ are working to produce in the people God has chosen. John Ritenbaugh explains how Christians play their parts in unifying the Body of Christ and preparing for an eternity of oneness in the Kingdom of God.
The apostle Paul uses the enigmatic phrase "all in all" a handful of times in his epistles. It is an expression of the fantastic oneness that the Father and Christ are working to produce in the people God has chosen. John Ritenbaugh explains how Christians play their parts in unifying the Body of Christ and preparing for an eternity of oneness in the Kingdom of God.
Implications of the Gospel of the Kingdom (January 5, 2023)
Discussions about the gospel Jesus preached can quickly turn into debates over what that gospel is about, despite Mark 1:14 and other scriptures calling it "the gospel of the kingdom of God." Understanding this distinction produces far-reaching implications for what we believe and how we conduct ourselves. David Grabbe focuses on a Christian's relationship to the nation of his birth and its politics and leaders.
Discussions about the gospel Jesus preached can quickly turn into debates over what that gospel is about, despite Mark 1:14 and other scriptures calling it "the gospel of the kingdom of God." Understanding this distinction produces far-reaching implications for what we believe and how we conduct ourselves. David Grabbe focuses on a Christian's relationship to the nation of his birth and its politics and leaders.