Human beings frequently express their thoughts by means of figures of speech. This procedure is likewise a part of biblical revelation. The person who does not understand the use of figurative language will not fathom many elements of Bible truth. This article explores the necessity of understanding some of the figures of speech employed in sacred scripture.

How does one explain Jesus’ injuction for followers to “hate” their families?

Critics of the Bible often imagine they have found a flaw in the sacred text. Though they know it not, the flaw is with them. Such is the case in one criticism of comments made regarding the ostrich in the book of Job.

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.

Several years ago, discussing the meaning of “adultery” was often straightforward. Today, many interpret adultery as simply breaking marriage vows, reflecting modern religious shifts that have redefined adultery to accommodate easier divorce and remarriage.

This article by Wayne Jackson provides a detailed analysis of the Second Epistle of Peter in the New Testament. It discusses its authorship, themes, and relevance to the Christian faith. The article also explores the controversies surrounding its authenticity and the teachings it presents.

We are grateful for Robert Dick Wilson’s masterful work confirming the credibility of the Old Testament.

This article explores the biblical context and interpretation of Jesus Christ’s use of the “I Am” expression in John 8:58, its connection to Exodus 3:14, and its implications for understanding Christ’s divine nature and eternal existence.

The article explores the messages from angels in the 14th chapter of the book of Revelation, focusing on the vision of a Lamb on Mount Zion, the concept of redemption, and the eternal good tidings brought by the angel.

The article discusses the extinction of the woolly mammoth, theories about its sudden demise, including climate change and the concept of uniformitarianism, and how catastrophism and the Genesis Flood provide alternative explanations. The possible existence of an Ice Age is also discussed.

The article examines Ted Cruz’s claim that supporting the modern nation of Israel is biblically mandated, exploring the context and interpretation of relevant Bible verses and concluding that the Bible does not require political support for modern Israel.

This is one of the titles of a church official who oversees a local congregation of Christ’s church in the company of fellow bishops (always a plurality of men).

“Bishop” translates the Greek ter...

This book surveys some 424 years, from the beginning of Solomon’s reign to the edict from the Persian king, Cyrus, to free the Jews. 

Cyrus commissioned the Jews to return from the Babylonian capt...

Apocalyptic language is a highly symbolic form of expression. Vivid figures of speech convey the ideas. When the figures are interpreted, the meaning of the message is uncovered. The word derives f...

This phrase has roots in the Old Testament. The book of Daniel alludes to “the abomination that makes desolate” (cf. 9:27, 11:31, 12:11). 

It is generally believed that 11:31 is a reference to the...

The Bible occasionally speaks of the wicked being ultimately “destroyed” (apollumi) in hell (Mt. 10:28; Lk. 13:3, 5; 2 Thes. 2:10). Some, therefore, have assumed that after an appropriate period of...

The Greek word is huiothesia, from huios, “son,” and tithemi, “to set, put, or place.” 

The word suggests the idea of putting one into the position of a son. It is used five times in the New Testa...

The apostle John affirms that Jesus functions as an “advocate” on behalf of his people (1 Jn. 2:1). The Greek word for advocate is parakletos, literally suggesting the sense "to call to one’s side....

The English “angel” is an anglicized form of the Greek aggelos (pronounced angelos). The term signifies a “messenger.”

The word Aggelos is used in several ways in the Scriptures. 
• It commonly d...

Adultery is sexual intimacy between a married person and someone other than their lawful mate. The act begins in the mind (Mt. 5:28; Mk. 7:21) and ultimately manifests in physical union (cf. Jn. 8:...