The Apocrypha (also known as the Deuterocanonical books) refers to a collection of ancient Jewish writings that were not included in the Hebrew Bible. These books and additions to books of the Hebrew Bible were, however, included in early versions of the Christian Old Testament, including the influential Greek Septuagint translation. The Catholic and Orthodox Churches recognize some or all of these writings as Scripture, while Protestants generally do not. Origin and meaning of “Apocrypha” The word “apocrypha” comes from the Greek word meaning “hidden, secret.” Early Christians used this term for books accepted by some Christian groups but not…
Author: Emma Price
The Bible is the inspired word of God, written by over 40 authors spanning 1500 years. As the revealed truth of God, we can trust the Bible as authoritative and without error in its original manuscripts. However, as the Bible was copied and translated over thousands of years, some discrepancies arose between different manuscripts and translations. Additionally, our finite human minds struggle at times to fully comprehend God’s infinite truth. This can lead to some perceived contradictions and discrepancies. When approaching alleged errors or contradictions in the Bible, we must first understand the genre and context of each passage. The…
The concept of being “quickened” shows up in several places throughout the Bible, both in the Old and New Testaments. At its core, being “quickened” refers to being made alive, animated, or given life. When something is quickened, it is vivified and energized by God’s power and grace. Let’s take a closer look at how this term is used in Scripture. Quickening in the Old Testament In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word “chayah” is often translated as “quicken” in the King James Version. It literally means to live, revive, or recover. Here are a few examples of how it…
The Bible does not prescribe a specific church hierarchy or governmental structure. However, there are some biblical principles that can help guide how churches are structured and led. Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church The New Testament makes it clear that Jesus Christ is the head of the church. Ephesians 5:23 states, “Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior.” Colossians 1:18 echoes this: “He is the head of the body, the church.” Jesus Christ has supremacy and authority over the church. He directs and builds his church through the power…
The statement that Jesus Christ is “the same yesterday, today, and forever” first appears in Hebrews 13:8. This verse teaches an important truth about the eternal nature and unchanging character of Jesus Christ. As the eternal Son of God, Jesus is immutable and consistent throughout all time. He is the same in the past, present, and future. Understanding the meaning of Hebrews 13:8 provides great comfort and hope for believers. Jesus is Eternally Unchanging First, Hebrews 13:8 teaches that Jesus Christ is eternally unchanging in his nature and attributes. He exists outside of time and space since he is the…
A prophetess is a female prophet. In the Bible, a prophet is someone who speaks God’s messages to others. Prophets often warned people to turn away from sin and turn back to God. They also spoke of future events that God revealed to them. Some key points about prophetesses in the Bible: Examples of Prophetesses in the Bible Here are some of the main women described as prophetesses in the Scriptures: Miriam – Miriam was the sister of Moses and Aaron. She is called a prophetess in Exodus 15:20. Along with her brothers, Miriam helped lead the Israelites out of…
The Jewish beliefs about the afterlife are rooted in the Hebrew Bible, also known as the Old Testament in Christianity. However, there is much debate and some ambiguity around exactly what the Bible says concerning life after death. Here is an overview of some of the key biblical texts and themes that have shaped mainstream Jewish thought on the afterlife: Sheol The Hebrew word Sheol appears over 60 times in the Hebrew Bible and is commonly translated as “the grave” or “the pit.” It refers to a mysterious underworld where the spirits of the dead go after leaving the body.…
The Bible does not directly prohibit or condemn dyeing or coloring one’s hair. However, there are some principles and passages that can give insight into how God views altering one’s natural appearance. Here is an overview of key points regarding what the Bible says about dyeing hair: Motivations Matter The Bible emphasizes that God looks at the heart and motivations rather than just outward appearances (1 Samuel 16:7). Dyeing hair in and of itself may not be wrong, but reasons matter. Is it being done out of vanity, insecurity, or trying to attract attention? The Bible warns against being obsessed…
The verse in question, Mark 9:48, reads “where their worm does not die and the fire is not quenched.” This is part of a larger passage where Jesus is teaching about hell and the final judgment of sinners who refuse to repent and turn to God. The “worm” mentioned here has been the source of much discussion and interpretation over the centuries. There are a few key things to understand about this verse: It’s quoting Isaiah 66:24 which uses similar imagery of worms and unquenchable fire to describe the fate of the wicked. So Jesus is drawing on an Old…
The words “vex” and “vexed” appear numerous times throughout the Bible, carrying meanings related to anger, frustration, annoyance, and provocation. At its core, being “vexed” refers to a state of agitation, disturbance, or distress inflicted upon someone. Let’s explore what the Bible says about vexing and being vexed. Old Testament Usage In the Old Testament, “vex” most commonly translates the Hebrew word “ya’ar” meaning to frustrate, be grieved, make angry, provoke, or vex. Here are some examples of “vex” in the Old Testament: “Now this was very displeasing to Abraham on account of his son. But God said to Abraham,…