Contextualization refers to the process of presenting the Gospel in a way that is relevant and meaningful to people within their cultural context. It involves understanding both the biblical text and the recipient culture in order to communicate biblical truth effectively. At its core, contextualization aims to make the Good News understandable and applicable in the midst of diverse worldviews and value systems. The Bible provides many examples of contextualization in practice. When God called Abram in Genesis 12, He began the process of raising up a people to fulfill His redemptive purposes. God adapted His working in each stage…
Author: Kerry Baysinger
The phrase “there are three that bear record” comes from 1 John 5:7 in the King James Version of the Bible. This verse has been the subject of much debate and controversy over the years. Here is the verse: “For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.” (1 John 5:7 KJV) This verse is not found in most modern Bible translations because it does not appear in the earliest Greek manuscripts of 1 John. Most scholars believe it was not originally part of John’s first epistle,…
The statement that God cannot deny Himself comes from 2 Timothy 2:13, which says “if we are faithless, he remains faithful—for he cannot deny himself.” This verse is nestled in a passage where Paul is encouraging Timothy to “share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus” (2 Tim. 2:3) and to not get entangled in civilian pursuits. Even if we are unfaithful, God remains faithful. He is dependable and steadfast. His character does not change. He cannot deny His own nature. So what does it mean that God cannot deny Himself? First, it means God is consistent. His…
The Philistines were a people group who inhabited the southern coast of Canaan during the time of the biblical judges and kings. They are mentioned frequently in the Old Testament, often as enemies of the Israelites. Here is an overview of what the Bible teaches about the Philistines: Origins of the Philistines The Philistines are thought to have originated from somewhere in the Aegean Sea region. Many scholars believe they migrated from Crete, Cyprus, or the Greek islands. They settled along the southwestern Mediterranean coast in the area known as Philistia around the 12th century BC (Genesis 10:14; 1 Chronicles…
Psalm 42:7 says, “Deep calls to deep at the roar of your waterfalls; all your breakers and your waves have gone over me.” This verse poetically expresses the psalmist’s intense longing for God during a time of despair. The specific phrase “deep calls to deep” has become well-known and is open to several possible interpretations when understood in its context. The Setting of Psalm 42 Psalm 42 is attributed to the sons of Korah and is titled a “Maskil.” The sons of Korah were Levite temple musicians during the time of King David. “Maskil” likely indicates that this is a…
In the early church, deacons played an important role in assisting the apostles and elders with various practical needs of the congregation. Though their role has evolved over time, deacons continue to fill a vital service position in many churches today. The biblical qualifications for deacons are listed in 1 Timothy 3:8-13. Deacons must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain, holding the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience, tested first and proven blameless. Their wives likewise must be dignified and not slanderers. Deacons must be husband of one wife and…
Huldah was a prophetess who lived during the time of King Josiah’s reign in Judah. She is mentioned briefly in 2 Kings 22 and 2 Chronicles 34, but her role was significant in affirming the authority of God’s Word during Josiah’s religious reforms. Here is an overview of what the Bible reveals about Huldah: Huldah was sought out for her wisdom and prophetic gift When the Book of the Law (likely Deuteronomy) was discovered during renovations of the temple, King Josiah recognized that Judah had strayed from God’s commands and ordered the priests and scribes to “inquire of the LORD”…
The Bible has a lot to say about perseverance and not giving up, especially in the face of trials and adversity. Here is an overview of some of the key biblical themes regarding giving up: God wants us to persevere and not lose heart Several verses encourage believers to stand firm in their faith and not give up. Galatians 6:9 says “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Hebrews 10:36 says “You need to persevere so that when you have done the will…
The Lord’s Supper, also known as Communion or the Eucharist, is an important Christian tradition practiced by churches worldwide. Here is an in-depth 9000 word look at what the Bible teaches about the meaning and significance of the Lord’s Supper. Instituted by Jesus The Lord’s Supper was instituted by Jesus Christ himself on the night before his crucifixion. While eating the Passover meal with his disciples, Jesus took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19). He then took the…
Mercy killing, also known as euthanasia, is the act of ending someone’s life to relieve their suffering. This controversial issue has been debated for centuries from ethical, legal, and theological perspectives. As Christians, it is important we examine what the Bible says about mercy killing to gain spiritual wisdom and insight. Though the term “mercy killing” does not appear in scripture, there are several biblical principles we can draw from to evaluate the morality of euthanasia: 1. Human Life Has Intrinsic Value The Bible teaches that all human life is sacred because we are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27).…