Nature lies outside the grasp of my control. One decent thunderstorm is enough to make this clear. And in Tennessee, we get some lively storms, complete with lightning, hail, damaging winds, and even the occasional tornado touching down. The thunder can crack so loud it shakes our house. The lightning still startles me, and with good reason. Scientists say lightning can heat … [Read more...] about Images of the Bible – Shattering the Trees
Bible
A Brighter Day
God's creation displays profound beauty, but it also displays deep brokenness. All is not well. For every blossom bloomed, another withers away. The fields of soft Spring grass now also yield thorns and thistles (Genesis 3:18). The creation, while still speaking of God's glory, now also speaks of our great sin. For the original sin of mankind brought a curse on the earth … [Read more...] about A Brighter Day
Love Your Near
In Matthew 22:39, Jesus says, "Love your neighbor as yourself." The Greek reads: "ἀγαπήσεις τoν πλησίον σου ὡς σεαυτόν." What's interesting here is the word for neighbor, πλησίον. It literally means "near." With an article it can be used as a noun, becoming "neighbor," or more literally "the one who is near (you)." I think this nuance of meaning is helpful. We tend … [Read more...] about Love Your Near
A Matter of Interpretation: 1 John 3:19-20
Some passages of scripture are difficult to translate and understand. 1 John 3:19-20 is one of those passages. Look at the various ways translators have wrestled with these two verses: “By this we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him; for whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and he knows everything.” ESV“This is how … [Read more...] about A Matter of Interpretation: 1 John 3:19-20
Share the Bible Day
Today is "Global Share the Bible Day" (at least according to YouVersion). I'm not sure about the event, but I am sure about the Bible. So why do I read the Bible? Here are a few reasons… I want the truth. The Bible contains truth.I want to see God but can't. The Bible reveals God.I want a better life. The Bible acts as life's instruction manual.I want to go Home. The … [Read more...] about Share the Bible Day