The verse in James 3:1 states, “Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.” This is a sobering warning for those considering positions of spiritual teaching and authority. But why does James issue such a caution? There are a few key reasons why not everyone should seek to be a teacher of God’s word: 1. Teachers are held to a higher standard of judgment James makes it clear that teachers will face stricter judgment. As those entrusted with correctly handling and sharing biblical truth, teachers have…
Author: Aaron Chin
The proverb “Can a man take fire in his bosom and not be burned?” is found in Proverbs 6:27. This verse falls within a larger passage (Proverbs 6:20-35) warning against the dangers of adultery. To “take fire in one’s bosom” refers metaphorically to embracing or flirting with sexual immorality. Just as carrying hot coals against one’s chest will surely result in getting burned, so too will dabbling in adultery end in harm and ruin. The rhetorical question “Can a man take fire in his bosom and not be burned?” implies the answer is obviously “no.” It is foolishness to think…
In 2 Peter 2:17, false teachers are compared to “wells without water.” This vivid metaphor provides insight into the nature and impact of false teachers according to a biblical perspective. First, it is helpful to understand the importance of wells in biblical times. In an arid climate, access to water was critical for survival and wells were literal lifelines. A well without water would be a major disappointment and potential danger. Thus, the imagery of a dry well emphasizes that something is desperately needed but tragically lacking. In the same way, false teachers present themselves as having life-giving spiritual water…
Colossians 2:8 says, “See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.” This verse warns believers about the dangers of false teaching and worldly philosophies that can lead people astray from the truth of the gospel. The key phrase in this verse is “empty deceit” or “vain deceit” in some translations. This refers to teachings and ideas that may seem plausible, interesting, or intellectually appealing on the surface, but are ultimately hollow and deceptive when examined in the…
Living peaceably with all people is a central teaching in the Bible. Romans 12:18 says “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” This verse comes in the context of Romans 12, which calls believers to live transformed lives and think rightly about themselves and others. So what does it mean to live peaceably with all people according to the Bible? First, living peaceably means actively pursuing peace and harmony with others. This goes beyond just avoiding conflict to taking initiative to promote good relationships. As Romans 12:18 says, we should do everything we can…
Easter Reading Plan – Day 21 The Easter season is a time of renewal, hope and celebration of Christ’s resurrection. As we approach Easter Sunday, it can be meaningful to spend time reflecting on the biblical accounts leading up to this important day. Here is an in-depth look at the Scripture readings traditionally associated with Easter and the days preceding it: Palm Sunday On Palm Sunday, we remember Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem just days before his death and resurrection. The crowds welcomed him by waving palm branches and hailing him as king. This fulfilled the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9…
Today we reflect on several key passages of scripture related to the events surrounding Easter. This is a time to contemplate the sacrifice that Jesus made for us and the hope and joy of His resurrection. Jesus Washes His Disciples’ Feet (John 13:1-17) This passage depicts the profound act of servanthood displayed by Jesus in washing His disciples’ feet at the Last Supper. Though He was their Lord and Teacher, He humbled Himself to serve them in this menial task, modeling for us true humility and servanthood. His example challenges us to serve one another in love, putting others’ needs…
The Valley of Slaughter is mentioned in Jeremiah 7:32 which says, “Therefore, behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when it will no more be called Topheth, or the Valley of the Son of Hinnom, but the Valley of Slaughter; for they will bury in Topheth, because there is no room elsewhere.” To understand what this valley is, we need some context. Jeremiah was a prophet in the land of Judah during the time leading up to and during the Babylonian captivity. The people of Judah had turned away from following God, and Jeremiah was warning them about coming…
Studying theology allows us to better understand God and His plan for humanity as revealed in the Bible. At its core, theology is the study of God and His relationship to us. By studying theology, we can grow closer to God and deepen our faith. Here are 9 key reasons why studying theology is worthwhile: 1. To Know God Better Theology helps us know God more intimately. Through studying His names, attributes, and character, we gain insight into who He is. Theology provides a framework for understanding God’s nature, which drives us to worship and obey Him. As Jesus said,…
In Matthew 19:10, Jesus’ disciples conclude that it is better not to marry after Jesus teaches on marriage and divorce. To understand why the disciples come to this conclusion, we need to look at the full context of Matthew 19:1-12. In Matthew 19:1-9, Jesus is questioned by the Pharisees about divorce. Jesus responds by affirming God’s original intention for marriage as a permanent, monogamous union between one man and one woman. Jesus says divorce was permitted under the Law of Moses due to the hardness of people’s hearts, but this was not God’s original design. Jesus teaches that divorce, except…