Easter is one of the most significant Christian holidays, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after his crucifixion. However, some Christians argue that Easter has pagan origins and should not be celebrated. What does the Bible say about whether Christians should observe Easter or not? First, it’s important to understand the history behind Easter. The name “Easter” comes from the Germanic goddess Eostre, a pagan fertility celebration in the spring. When Christianity spread into Europe, missionaries often incorporated local cultural practices into Christian holidays to aid conversion. This is likely how the resurrection celebration became associated with the…
Author: Erin Weitzman
Individualism is a worldview that emphasizes the importance and value of the individual over the group. It celebrates human freedom, autonomy, and self-reliance. In an individualistic framework, the interests, goals, and values of the individual take priority over the community or society as a whole. The Bible has quite a bit to say about individualism, both for and against. On the one hand, the Bible upholds the value and dignity of every human being as made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). Each person is precious and important to God. The Bible warns against oppression, neglect, or abuse of…
The story of Esther in the Bible offers important lessons about God’s providence and using one’s position for good. Esther, a Jewish woman living in exile in Persia, was raised up to be queen “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14) to save her people from destruction. Her courageous act of approaching the Persian king to intercede for the Jews exemplifies using one’s influence and privilege on behalf of others. Her wise actions and willingness to risk her life out of obedience to her cousin Mordecai’s charge demonstrate strong faith and trust in God. Furthermore, while God is never…
Adultery is defined as voluntary sexual intercourse between a married person and someone other than their lawful spouse. It is considered a sin in the Bible and has serious spiritual and practical consequences. Here is an overview of what the Bible says about adultery: Adultery is prohibited by God The Seventh Commandment given to Moses states plainly: “You shall not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14). This principle is repeated numerous times throughout Scripture (Leviticus 18:20, Deuteronomy 5:18, Matthew 5:27, Romans 13:9, etc.). God created marriage and expressly forbids adultery as a violation of the marriage covenant. Adultery is a sin against…
The term “yokefellow” appears only once in the Bible, in Philippians 4:3, which says “Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.” The Greek word translated here as “true companion” or “yokefellow” is syzygos, which refers to someone who is yoked together with another, like oxen pulling a plow. In the ancient world, yoking animals together allowed them to work more efficiently together. By referring to someone as a…
Oswald Chambers was a prominent early 20th century Scottish Baptist pastor and teacher. He was born in Aberdeen, Scotland in 1874. From an early age, Chambers felt called to Christian ministry. He began preaching at age 17 and studied at the Bible Training College in London from 1908-1911, where he became assistant principal. It was during this time that Chambers founded and edited the BTC’s journal, Tongues of Fire. He also served as a chaplain and teacher to British Commonwealth soldiers in Egypt during World War I. Chambers is best known as the author of the devotional My Utmost for…
Korah was a Levite who rebelled against Moses and Aaron during the wilderness wanderings of the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt. The story of Korah’s rebellion is told in Numbers 16. Korah was a Levite, meaning he was from the tribe of Levi, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The Levites were responsible for various religious duties and roles in the tabernacle worship. However, Korah desired more power and authority, coveting the priesthood which was reserved for Aaron and his sons (Numbers 16:10). Korah, along with Dathan, Abiram and On from the tribe of Reuben, assembled 250 leaders…
Abstinence is the practice of refraining from indulging in something, often referring specifically to abstaining from sexual intercourse outside of marriage. The Bible has much to say about abstinence and keeping oneself pure. Here are some key Bible verses about abstinence: 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God. This passage emphasizes that abstaining from sexual immorality is God’s will…
Wickedness is a major theme throughout the Bible. God makes it clear that He detests wickedness and those who practice it will face judgment. Here is an overview of some key Bible verses about wickedness: Old Testament Verses on Wickedness The Old Testament contains many verses warning about the dangers of wickedness and declaring God’s judgment on those who choose to live wicked lives. Here are some examples: “The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” (Genesis 6:5) “Now the earth…
The Psalms of Solomon are a collection of 18 psalms found in some manuscripts of the Septuagint (the ancient Greek translation of the Old Testament) but not considered canonical by most Christian churches. Though they are attributed to Solomon, scholars believe they were likely composed between 70-40 BC by Pharisees who opposed the Hasmonean dynasty that ruled Judea following the Maccabean revolt. The Psalms give expression to the yearnings of faithful Jews during a period of foreign domination of their land. They contain denunciations of sinners within Jerusalem and her leadership, praise for the Davidic dynasty, and expectations of God’s…