Jews of New Testament times used ‘Beelzebul’ as a name for Satan, the prince of demons.
Who was Beelzebul?
read more
02 Library
What does it mean to fear God?
In biblical terms, the word “fear” does not usually focus on feelings of terror or fright. “Fear” is a motivating emotion. We use “fear” to determine what we will do in any given situation.
Sheep in Scripture
Metaphors about sheep and their shepherd have a rich background in the Old Testament that continues in the New Testament. Without a shepherd, sheep can easily end up hungry, lost and the victim of predators.
What is the nature of faith?
Some see faith as a settled issue, something we no longer have to think about once we pray the sinners prayer. Others see faith as a journey with trials and troubles along the way. The goal is to grow and persevere. Which approach we take influences how we interpret the Bible. (I take the second approach.)
Olivet Discourse: Comparing the Synoptic Gospels
The Olivet Discourse is a conversation Jesus had with his disciples shortly before his crucifixion. As they sat on the Mount of Olives looking across at the temple, Jesus explained many things about the coming destruction of the temple. While Matthew provides the fullest account, this teaching is found in all three synoptic gospels.
What is hesed, God’s lovingkindess?
What is hesed? The Hebrew word is important in the Old Testament. If hesed was a recipe, it would have three ingredients.
Who were the Essenes?
The Essenes are the third major “philosophical school” identified by Josephus. Little is know about them with certainty.
Who were the Zealots?
The Zealots were a revolutionary movement that arose in response to Jewish oppression by the Roman empire (but they were not the only revolutionary movement).
Who were the Sadducees?
The Sadducees were linked with the high priesthood and power. The party grew out of the aristocratic Sanhedrin.
I need an overview of the Bible
Overview of the Bible: Just as it’s helpful to know the culture of Jane Austin before reading Emma, it’s helpful to know the history behind the Bible.
Habakkuk Introduction
The Old Testament book of Habakkuk speaks to two of the most fundamental questions of the Christian faith: 1) How long will God let His people suffer? and 2) Why should we keep believing Him if we’re not spared the tragedies of life?
What do expiation and propitiation mean?
When studying the atonement, you’re likely to run across two technical words: expiation and propitiation. These terms tend to appear in a text without explanation. But since they are not in the Bible and they don’t often come up in daily conversation, it can be difficult to remember what they mean.