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The term "sabbath" is derived from the Hebrew shabath, to "cease." The use of this word for the "seventh day" reflects the Genesis account of creation, when, after six days of creative activity, Jehovah "ceased" his labor (cf. Ex. 20:8-11). There is no astronomical phenomenon to explain a seven-d...
The Old Testament, the revered Hebrew Bible, is a divine collection of thirty-nine books. These books, inspired by God (Mt. 22:31-32; 2 Tim. 3:15-17), were produced over a period of about 1,000 years, authored by some thirty or so writers. There are four major divisions of the Old Testament. Thes...
After Jacob had his famous encounter with the "messenger" of Jehovah (Gen. 32:29; cf. Hos. 12:4-5), his name was changed to "Israel," suggesting, "he who strove with God." Later, the name is applied to the descendants of Jacob generally (Gen. 32:32; Ex. 1:9; 12:3). When the kingdom split during t...
God is often referred to as a "Father" (107 times in the Gospel of John alone). The Scriptures use the term in several ways: God is the Father of all men in the sense that he is the Creator of humanity (cf. Mal. 2:10; Ezek. 18:4; Lk. 3:38; Acts 17:28). He is the Father of Jesus Christ (Mt. 3:17; ...
The book of Ephesians was a letter written by Paul from Rome while he was in prison (AD 60-62). The book develops the theme of "God's eternal purpose" (3:10-11). It reveals that even before the world was formed (1:4), God elected to save a specific type of person (the obedient) based on the merit...
The word "dogma" is not found in the English Bible, but it is in the Greek New Testament. • In classical Greek, the term had a range of meanings from opinion to a legal edict. Luke refers to a census "decree" that Augustus sent forth (2:1). This was dogma with the force of law. See also the accus...
A covenant is an agreement between two parties. In some cases, the parties stand on equal footing, and each party contributes to the conditions of the covenant. It can be the case, however, that one of the parties is infinitely superior to the other, as in the case of God versus man. Accordingly,...
The story of Ruth ... and three precious lessons from this memorable book from the Old Testament.
Unlike some other religions, the validity of Christian faith rests upon what we believe about the gospel of Christ. But what exactly must one know to become a child of God? Let’s explore these thoughts in this brief article.
The phenomenon of “sin” has wrought a terrible harvest upon this earth. Consider this matter with us.
Perhaps the answer to a decline in Christianity is to restore the church as found in the New Testament.
Atheists claim to the anti-religion, yet they have formed their own “religion.” They are the epitome of inconsistency.
Since the late second century A.D., controversy has existed concerning the nature of the Godhead. Is God a solitary person—simply manifested in three forms? Or do three separate personalities exist, each of whom possesses the nature of deity? Is the popular doctrine of the Trinity true or false?
The fourteenth chapter of Romans is a marvelous treatise in which the inspired apostle encourages the strong to assist the weak so that the cause of Christ might be united. It contains such rich lessons for the church of today.
Romans 5:1-2 is a beautiful text, so filled with meaning. Unfortunately, it has been terribly misunderstood by many. Study this sacred passage with us.
Romans 14 is an intriguing piece of literature. Often misunderstood and frequently abused, it offers much instruction for the spiritually minded student.
The book of Ruth is one of the beauty spots of the Old Testament. It is a delightfully “romantic” narrative. Aside from that, it contains some very wonderful truths that pertain to God’s great plan of redemption.
It is not difficult to see how vital it is to understand the role of Jesus’ blood in God’s redemptive plan.