The Bible teaches that God is not the author of confusion, but of peace (1 Corinthians 14:33). This is an important truth that gives us insight into the nature and character of God. It assures us that God desires order, clarity, and understanding for His people. To say God is not the author of confusion means He does not cause chaos, disorder, or lack of understanding. Confusion stems from the devil, the fall of man, and the corrupted world we live in – not from God (John 8:44; Genesis 3; 2 Corinthians 4:4). God is truth and light (1 John…
Author: Emma Price
Paul’s letter to the Romans is arguably his most thorough and systematic explanation of the gospel message. In the opening verses, he lays out one of the key themes that will shape the rest of the letter: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes…” (Romans 1:16). At first glance, this may not seem like a monumental statement. But when we consider the context, we see that Paul was making a bold and countercultural claim. Here are a few reasons Paul insists that he is “not ashamed…
Psalm 63:1 says, “O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.” This verse expresses David’s deep longing and desire to seek after God. But does it mean we have to get up early every morning specifically to seek after God? Let’s explore this topic further. The importance of seeking God First, it’s clear from Psalm 63:1 that David had a passionate desire to seek after God. His soul “thirsted” and his flesh “fainted” for God. Seeking…
The Shepherding Movement, sometimes called the Discipleship Movement, refers to a controversial movement within some charismatic and Pentecostal churches that began in the 1970s. The movement emphasized the need for Christians to be under the authority and personal pastoral care of an elder or “shepherd.” The Shepherding Movement originated within the Fort Lauderdale Five, a group of five charismatic leaders: Derek Prince, Don Basham, Bob Mumford, Charles Simpson, and Ern Baxter. These men were concerned about what they saw as a lack of accountability and discipleship in the charismatic renewal of the 1960s and 1970s. In response, they taught that…
The Liberal Catholic Church (LCC) is a form of Christianity that incorporates beliefs and practices from Catholicism and Anglicanism while also embracing liberal and progressive theological views. The LCC was founded in 1916 as a breakaway movement from the Old Catholic Church over disagreements about theology and ritual. Here is an overview of some of the key characteristics and beliefs of the Liberal Catholic Church: Origins and History The LCC traces its apostolic succession back to the Old Catholic Church of the Netherlands, which separated from the Roman Catholic Church in the 1870s over objections to the doctrine of papal…
The Bible has a few things to say about extortioners and the sin of extortion. An extortioner is someone who obtains money, property, or services from another by coercion, intimidation, or undue exercise of authority. It often involves the abuse of power to deprive someone of their property unlawfully. Extortion is condemned throughout Scripture as contrary to God’s ways. Old Testament Teachings on Extortion In the Old Testament, the law given to Moses expressly forbade extortion: “You shall not steal, you shall not deal falsely, you shall not lie to one another” (Leviticus 19:11). This teaches that extortion, which is…
The phrase “the fields are white for harvest” comes from John 4:35, where Jesus says to his disciples, “Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, then comes the harvest’? Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest.” This is a rich metaphor that provides insight into Jesus’ mission and message. To understand this phrase, it is important to consider the context. Jesus was traveling through Samaria, where he encountered a Samaritan woman at a well. After speaking with her, many Samaritans came to believe in Jesus (John 4:39-42). When…
The Bible does not explicitly prohibit or condemn fiction writing and reading. However, there are some principles and verses that can guide Christians in how to approach fiction in a God-honoring way. Principles for Approaching Fiction Here are some key principles for Christians to keep in mind regarding fiction: Focus on that which is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable (Philippians 4:8). Christians should be selective in what fiction they read and write, avoiding that which glorifies immorality. Avoid fiction that causes you to stumble in your walk with God (Romans 14:13). For some, certain genres like horror or erotica…
The Bible has a lot to say about fertility, children, and barrenness. God is the author of life and Scripture makes it clear that children are a blessing from Him (Psalm 127:3-5). However, infertility can be emotionally and spiritually difficult for many couples. Here is an overview of what the Bible teaches about fertility: Children Are a Blessing from God Throughout Scripture, children are viewed as gifts from God and a blessing (Genesis 33:5, Psalm 127:3-5, Psalm 128:3-4). Bearing children was seen as part of God’s plan for creation and something to rejoice in. Several women in the Bible who…
The phrase “I have finished the race” comes from 2 Timothy 4:7, where Paul says, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” This verse is part of Paul’s final words to Timothy before his martyrdom, where he reflects on his life of ministry and mission work spreading the gospel. There are a few key things Paul likely meant when he said he had “finished the race”: 1. Paul had completed his God-given mission Throughout his missionary journeys described in Acts, Paul traveled thousands of miles around the Mediterranean region preaching the…