GROW YOUR FAITH
For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.
Hebrews 4:12 (NLT)
Unlocking the Depth of Biblical Meaning: Why Relying Solely on Modern Dictionaries for Bible Interpretation Falls Short
Using a modern dictionary for Bible interpretation may not always be sufficient because languages, including biblical languages like Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, evolve over time. This evolution can result in changes in word meanings, nuances, and cultural contexts that may differ significantly from when biblical texts were written.
Esther: Discovering Jesus in Unexpected Places
The Book of Esther is renowned for its enthralling narrative of bravery, divine intervention, and the rescue of an entire people. While it may not overtly reference Jesus Christ, closer scrutiny reveals spiritual insights and echoes of the Savior within its narrative. Let’s unearth the unmistakable presence of Jesus in the Book of Esther.
Red Letter: Righteous Living (Insights from Matthew 6:1-4)
Three pillars of righteous living are highlighted by Jesus: giving, prayer, and fasting. It's not a question of "if" but "when" you engage in these acts, implying that these should be standard practices for the faithful. While these aren't the sole measures of righteousness, neglecting them can turn our other righteous deeds into displays of self-indulgence and arrogance.
The Pros and Cons of the "Plain Sense Meaning" Approach to Bible Study
When we read the Bible, shouldn’t we take its words at face value? The answer to that question is both yes and no. While every word in the Bible is true, God inspired the writers to use metaphor, symbolism, irony, and other literary devices to convey the message.
Nehemiah: Revealing Christ's Character and Mission
The Book of Nehemiah, found in the Old Testament, often escapes notice within the collection of biblical stories. Yet, beneath its apparently ordinary account of post-exilic Israel's endeavors to reconstruct the walls of Jerusalem lies a remarkable unveiling of Jesus Christ. While Nehemiah may not directly introduce us to the Messiah as the Gospels do, it offers a compelling glimpse into Christ's character, mission, and redemptive work in the world.
Red Letter Edition: A Kingdom That Loves Its Enemies
In a world where revenge often seems like the natural response to mistreatment or harm, the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 5:38-48 can be difficult to embrace. After all, who wants to be kind and forgiving to those who curse us or speak ill of us? It goes against our human instincts to retaliate when wronged. However, as we delve into these passages, we are reminded that God's purpose for our lives transcends our desire for vengeance.

