The continuity vs. discontinuity debate in theology refers to differing perspectives on how the Old and New Testaments relate to one another. Specifically, it deals with the question of whether there is fundamental continuity or discontinuity between Israel and the church. Those who hold to a continuity perspective see a fundamental unity between Israel and the church. In this view, the church is seen as the culmination of God’s purposes for Israel, with Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament hopes. Continuity advocates emphasize the essential harmony between the Testaments, arguing that we should interpret the New Testament in light…
Author: Erin Weitzman
Archippus is mentioned twice in the New Testament, both times in letters written by the apostle Paul. Based on the context of these verses, we can glean some information about who Archippus was and what role he played in the early church. Archippus in Philemon 1-2 The first reference to Archippus is found at the beginning of Paul’s letter to Philemon. In the opening verses, Paul addresses the letter to Philemon as well as to Apphia, Archippus, and the church that meets in Philemon’s home: Paul, a prisoner for Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, To Philemon our dear friend…
The Book of Acts, written by Luke, records the early history of the Christian church. It picks up where the Gospels leave off, chronicling the growth of the church in the years after Jesus’ death and resurrection. Some key events and themes include: The Ascension of Jesus and the Coming of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1-2) After his resurrection, Jesus appeared to his disciples over a 40-day period, teaching them about the kingdom of God (Acts 1:3). After this time, Jesus ascended into heaven as the disciples watched (Acts 1:9). Jesus instructed them to wait in Jerusalem for the promised…
The Gospel of Luke is the third book of the New Testament and one of the four gospels telling the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Luke was a physician and travel companion of the apostle Paul. His gospel provides a detailed account of the birth, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Luke begins by recounting the birth of John the Baptist. An angel appears to John’s father Zechariah while he is serving in the temple and tells him that his barren wife Elizabeth will conceive a son. Six months later, the angel Gabriel visits Mary in Nazareth and…
Lying is a major theme throughout the Bible. God makes it clear that He detests lying and sees it as a serious offense. Here is an overview of some key Bible verses about lying: Exodus 20:16 – “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.” This is one of the Ten Commandments. Bearing false witness means lying about someone else, especially in a court of law. This shows that God forbids lying even when it may benefit us or hurt our enemies. Proverbs 12:22 – “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are…
The Complete Jewish Bible (CJB) is an English translation of the Bible by Dr. David H. Stern. It was published in 1998 by Messianic Jewish Publishers. The CJB is a Messianic Jewish translation, meaning it is translated with a Messianic Jewish perspective. Translation Philosophy of the CJB The main goal of the CJB is to restore the Jewishness of the Bible. Dr. Stern sought to translate the Bible in a way that reflects the Jewish roots of Christianity and the Jewish identity of Yeshua (Jesus) and his earliest followers. Some key aspects of the translation philosophy include: Using Hebrew names…
The Bible has a lot to say about heaven, the eternal dwelling place of God and the redeemed. Here are some key Bible verses about heaven: Heaven is a real place Heaven is not just a concept or state of mind, but a real physical place created by God. Jesus told his disciples he was going to prepare a place for them in heaven (John 14:2-3). The apostle Paul wrote that he was caught up into the third heaven (2 Corinthians 12:2). Revelation describes heaven as a place with gates, walls, streets, and a river flowing from God’s throne (Revelation…
Gall is mentioned several times in the Bible, both literally referring to the bitter fluid secreted by the liver, and figuratively referring to something extremely bitter or venomous. Here is an overview of the key things the Bible teaches about gall: Literal references to gall in the Bible In several places, the Bible refers to the physical bile or gall that is produced by the liver. For example: – Job 20:25 says that when God’s wrath is poured out on the wicked, “the gall of the viper will be within him.” This refers to the literal venom or poison of…
119 Ministries is an organization founded in 2008 by a married couple, Rivkah and Ross Nichols. The ministry is based in Lebanon, Tennessee and focuses on helping Christians return to the Hebrew roots of their faith. The name “119 Ministries” comes from Psalm 119, which emphasizes the importance of studying and following God’s Word. Some of the key beliefs and teachings of 119 Ministries include: God’s instructions and commandments in the Old Testament are still relevant for believers today The Torah (Genesis through Deuteronomy) provides the foundation for properly understanding the rest of Scripture Jesus did not come to abolish…
Applied kinesiology is a technique in alternative medicine that uses muscle testing to diagnose illness and determine appropriate treatment. Practitioners test muscles to ascertain imbalances or weaknesses that may indicate problems elsewhere in the body. While applied kinesiology has become popular in some circles, the Bible does not specifically mention or endorse this practice. However, there are some biblical principles that can inform a Christian perspective on applied kinesiology: 1. The body is fearfully and wonderfully made by God The Bible teaches that human beings are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and that the human body is…