In Matthew 21:43-44, Jesus refers to himself as the “stone that the builders rejected” that has become “the cornerstone” on which people can either build their lives or stumble over and fall. This metaphor helps explain why some people accept and follow Jesus, while others reject him. The context is important for understanding this passage. In Matthew 21, Jesus has entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey to the praises of the crowds who shouted “Hosanna to the Son of David!” (v. 9). This “triumphal entry” fulfilled Old Testament prophecy about the coming Messiah (Zech. 9:9). However, the religious leaders rejected…
Author: Emma Price
The Bible has a lot to say about the origins of the universe and life on earth. There are two main viewpoints that people hold – either God supernaturally created everything, or life evolved over billions of years through natural processes. This article will summarize the biblical perspective on creation versus evolution. The Creation Account in Genesis The opening chapters of Genesis provide the most detailed biblical account of how God created the universe and life. Key points from the creation narrative include: God created the heavens, earth, and everything in them in six days (Genesis 1:1-31) The sequence was…
The question of whom Jesus died for is an important one in Christian theology. There are differing perspectives on the extent and nature of Christ’s atoning work on the cross. Here is an overview of key biblical teachings on this topic. Jesus died for the sins of the world Several passages indicate that Jesus’ death provides atonement for the sins of all humanity. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” 1 John 2:2 states that Jesus “is the propitiation for…
The blood of Christ is central to the Christian faith. It points to Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross and the forgiveness of sins that comes through faith in Him. Here is an overview of key biblical truths about the meaning and significance of Christ’s blood: 1. Christ’s blood represents His sacrificial death The shedding of blood is a vivid image of death. When Jesus shed His blood on the cross, it signified His life poured out as a sacrifice for sins (Matthew 26:28, Hebrews 9:22). Just as the blood of the Passover lamb delivered the Israelites from slavery in…
The question of what form our existence will take in heaven is an interesting one that the Bible does not provide a definitive answer to. However, through careful examination of biblical texts, we can glean some insights into what scripture reveals about the nature of our resurrection bodies. The Resurrection Body of Jesus Perhaps the best place to start when considering what form we will take in heaven is to look at the resurrected body of Jesus. After his crucifixion, Jesus rose from the dead bodily, and the Gospels record several encounters where Jesus interacted with his disciples in his…
The question of whether someone can truly stop being a Christian after proclaiming faith in Jesus Christ is an important one. There are differing viewpoints among Christians on this topic, with some believing it is possible to lose one’s salvation while others argue that true saving faith will endure to the end. Looking at relevant biblical passages can shed light on this debate. Those who believe Christians can lose their salvation point to verses warning against falling away, such as Hebrews 6:4-6 which says, “It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift,…
The topic of whether Christians should prepare a last will and testament is one that merits careful biblical consideration. On the one hand, some Christians may feel that since we trust in God’s provision and care for our loved ones after we pass away, there is no need to make legal preparations. On the other hand, making a will provides wisdom and stewardship in distributing earthly possessions God has entrusted to us. What light does the Bible shed on this issue? First, the Bible shows preparing for the future and caring for family is wise and responsible. 1 Timothy 5:8…
The Dispensation of Innocence The dispensation of innocence refers to the period of time in the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve lived in perfect communion with God before the fall. This was a time of utmost blessing and favor from God, as well as a test of obedience to His commands. The key factors of this dispensation include: God’s Relationship with Humanity In the Garden of Eden, God walked in perfect fellowship with Adam and Eve. Genesis 3:8 indicates that He would come to the garden and walk with them in the cool of the day. Humanity was…
The prophecy of St. Malachy refers to a list of 112 short phrases that supposedly predict all the popes that would preside over the Catholic Church. This list is attributed to St. Malachy, a 12th century Irish archbishop who allegedly experienced visions of future popes during a visit to Rome in 1139. However, the authenticity and origin of the prophecy is debated by scholars. According to the traditional account, while visiting Rome in 1139, Malachy experienced a vision showing him all the popes from his day to the end of time. He recorded each pope with a descriptive Latin phrase,…
Chanting, or the rhythmic repetition of words or sounds, is a common practice in many religions and spiritual traditions around the world. However, the Bible does not directly address chanting specifically. Here is an overview of what the Bible does and does not say about this practice: Music and Singing in Biblical Worship The Bible encourages the use of music, singing, and musical instruments to worship and praise God (Psalms 150:3-5, Ephesians 5:19, Colossians 3:16). Throughout the Old and New Testaments, music is presented as a way to glorify God, give thanks, and meditate on His word and deeds. Singing…