Charity is a major theme throughout the Bible. God calls us to be generous and compassionate, especially towards those in need. Here are some key Bible verses about charity: Old Testament Verses on Charity In the Old Testament, God gave laws and instructions to the Israelites about caring for the poor and needy among them: “If among you, one of your brothers should become poor, in any of your towns within your land that the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart or shut your hand against your poor brother, but you shall open your…
Author: Emma Price
The book of Job in the Bible tells the story of a righteous man named Job who experiences intense suffering when he loses his wealth, health, and children. In the midst of his despair, Job utters the famous words: “The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1:21 ESV). This verse has become a poignant expression of trusting God even in the darkest of times. But what exactly does it mean? The Context of Job 1:21 To properly understand Job’s statement in 1:21, we need to first look at the context.…
Our attitudes play a huge role in how we live our lives and relate to others. The Bible has a lot to say about attitude and perspective. Here are some key Bible verses about having the right attitude: Philippians 2:5 – Have the Attitude of Christ “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus…” This verse encourages us to have the same humble, servant-hearted attitude that Jesus had. He put others before himself and obeyed God, even to the point of death. We are called to follow His example by putting aside selfish ambition and considering others’…
The Second Vatican Council, also known as Vatican II, was a major meeting of the Catholic Church held from 1962 to 1965. It was convened by Pope John XXIII with the goal of spiritual renewal within the Church and reconsidering the Church’s role and teachings in the modern world. Some key events and outcomes of Vatican II included: Calling of the Council In 1959, Pope John XXIII announced his intention to convene an ecumenical council, which would be a gathering of the world’s Catholic bishops to discuss issues facing the Church. This surprised many, as it had been nearly 100…
The Mount of Transfiguration is an event recorded in the Synoptic Gospels where Jesus is transfigured and becomes radiant in glory upon a mountain. This event occurs towards the middle of Jesus’ public ministry shortly after Peter’s confession that Jesus is the Christ. The Mount of Transfiguration serves as a pivotal moment in Jesus’ ministry where God the Father affirms Jesus’ identity and glory. Biblical Accounts of the Transfiguration The Transfiguration of Jesus is recorded in Matthew 17:1-8, Mark 9:2-8, and Luke 9:28-36. In each account, Jesus takes Peter, James and John up to a high mountain where he is…
Words hold great power. They can build up or tear down, encourage or discourage, heal or hurt. As Christians, we are called to use our words wisely and for God’s glory. Here is an overview of what the Bible teaches about the power and importance of our words. Our Words Reflect What is in Our Hearts “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” (Matthew 12:34) Jesus teaches us that our words reveal what is truly inside of us. Hateful, angry speech exposes a heart in need of God’s love and redemption. Wise and uplifting words reflect a…
Herod Agrippa II was one of the later client rulers of Roman Judea during the 1st century AD. He was the son of Herod Agrippa I and the last of the Herodian dynasty. Though he ruled over parts of the region for several decades, the Bible only mentions him briefly during the trials of the apostle Paul. Herod Agrippa II was born around 27 AD as the son of Herod Agrippa I, the grandson of Herod the Great. His father had been made king over Judea by the Roman emperor Caligula in 37 AD. However, Herod Agrippa I died unexpectedly…
A believer is someone who has faith and trust in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. According to the Bible, a true believer is someone who has heard the gospel message, repented of their sins, and put their complete faith and trust in Christ for salvation. Here is an overview of key aspects of what it means to be a believer according to Scripture: Hears and Responds to the Gospel A believer is someone who has heard the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ and has responded in faith. Romans 10:17 says, “So faith comes from hearing, and…
Malta is a small island nation located in the Mediterranean Sea south of Sicily. Though quite small in size and population, Malta has played an interesting role in biblical history. Here is an overview of the significance of Malta in the Bible: Malta in the New Testament The main biblical significance of Malta comes from its mention in the New Testament, specifically in the book of Acts. In Acts 27-28, the apostle Paul is traveling as a prisoner on a ship heading to Rome. Along the way, they encounter a terrible storm and shipwreck on the island of Malta (Acts…
Ahithophel was an advisor to King David who later betrayed him and joined Absalom’s rebellion. He is mentioned in 2 Samuel chapters 15-17. Here is an overview of Ahithophel’s story and significance in the Bible: Ahithophel’s Background Ahithophel was originally one of King David’s trusted advisors. He was from Giloh and was the grandfather of Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11:3). He was held in high esteem and his advice was regarded as oracle-like (2 Samuel 16:23). However, at some point he grew disillusioned with David and betrayed him by siding with David’s rebellious son Absalom. Ahithophel Joins Absalom’s Rebellion When Absalom…