The Gospel Writers and Their Quotations from Jesus
When the Gospel writers cite the words of Jesus, they frequently vary their terminology. This is troubling to some. Is this circumstance cause for concern?
1 Corinthians 14:26 – Presentation Worship
Does 1 Corinthians 14:26ff authorize solos or choirs in New Testament worship?
Mark 2:5 – A Visible Faith
Mark 2:5 relates an account in which faith in Jesus is “seen.” Of what significance is this passage to the age-old “faith vs. works” discussion?
10 Great Lessons from the Book of Jonah
The book of Jonah is more than just a delightful story for children. Here are 10 valuable lessons gleaned from Jonah’s encounter with the great fish and the people of Nineveh.
Acts 15:9 — Hearts Cleansed by Faith
Some religious folks assume that this passage teaches that salvation is given upon the basis of faith alone — without additional acts of obedience. This is a tragic mistake.
The Rite of Circumcision
This week’s Notes briefly explores the use of “circumcision” in both the Old and New Testaments.
Adam Clarke & Albert Barnes: Scholars from the Past
Adam Clarke and Albert Barnes were famous Bible commentators of a by-gone era. This “human interest” piece discusses some little-known facts about these distinguished gentlemen.
Psalm 139:14 – Wonderfully Made
The language of this passage affirms that the human body is a work of intricate design and therefore could not have arisen by mere accident.
Binding and Loosing
The Roman Catholic church claims that Jesus Christ gave Peter the authority to bind and loose religious law. Matthew 16:19 is a record of this occasion, they say. Was Peter singled out to become the first pope in this passage?
Three Precious Lessons from the Book of Ruth
The story of Ruth ... and three precious lessons from this memorable book from the Old Testament.
Rich Nuggets in Romans 14:9
Tucked away in Romans 14:9 are some rich nuggets of truth that will enhance your faith.
Malachi 1:2,3 – Jacob Loved, Esau Hated
The book of Malachi states that Jacob was “loved” by God, yet his brother Esau was “hated.” This week’s Margin Notes deals with the use of such language.
Proverbs 6:17 – Hands that Shed Innocent Blood
This proverb has a modern-day application to the practice of abortion.
Luke 14:26 – Hating Family
How does one explain Jesus’ injuction for followers to “hate” their families?
Mark 11:20 – Jesus Curses a Fig Tree
Does Jesus’ cursing of the fig tree in Mark 11 reveal a “dark side” to the Savior? Not at all. Wayne Jackson explains this curious passage.
Nahum 1:1 – The End of Nineveh
Discover the historical background behind the Old Testament prophecy of Nahum.
Matthew 2:19-20 – The Death of Herod the Great
Luke 1:35 – Gabriel vs. Mohammed
The Qur’an teaches that Gabriel delivered a revelation of God to Mohammed. But Mohammed’s message contradicts the Bible in a multitude of passages. Here is one of those instances.
Genesis 6:6 – Did God Repent?
Genesis 6:6 indicates that “it repented Jehovah that he had made man.” Does this mean that God regretted his creation?
The English Standard Version Study Bible – A Review
Since its release in 2001, the English Standard Version of the Bible has gained popularity. We reviewed the ESV several years back and gave it commendation. Last year the ESV Study Bible appeared. While the study tools frequently are helpful, there are numerous danger spots characterized by doctrinal error. Those using this edition should be informed.