Miracles and magic may seem similar on the surface, but they are quite different according to the Bible. Understanding the distinctions is important for properly interpreting biblical accounts and applying them to our lives today. Definition of a Miracle A miracle is an extraordinary event that surpasses all known human or natural powers and is ascribed to divine intervention. According to the Bible, miracles are acts of God that reveal or confirm truth about His character and purpose. Miracles manifest God’s power and glory, authenticate His messengers, and advance His redemptive plan for the world. Some key aspects of biblical…
Author: Kerry Baysinger
Coming to faith in Christ while living with an unbelieving spouse or family member can be challenging. The Bible offers guidance on how to navigate this situation in a way that honors God and witnesses to those around you. Understand the unbeliever’s perspective First, remember that unbelievers do not share your new perspective and priorities (1 Corinthians 2:14). Your unbelieving spouse has not experienced the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit. While you see the world through new eyes, they still view it the old way. Be patient and do not expect them to immediately understand or embrace your faith.…
Nero was a Roman emperor who ruled from 54 to 68 AD. He was the last emperor of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. Nero had a reputation as a tyrant and was known for his excessive and brutal reign. Here is an overview of Nero’s life and legacy according to the Bible: Nero was born Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus in 37 AD in Antium, Italy. He was the only son of Gnaeus Domitius Ahenobarbus and Agrippina the Younger. His father came from a distinguished family, while his mother was the great-granddaughter of the emperor Augustus. When Nero was about three years old, his…
Normative ethics is the branch of ethics concerned with establishing ethical standards of right and wrong. It’s about determining the norms we should follow to lead moral lives. Normative ethics seeks to set norms and create frameworks to determine how we ought to act, what we should do, and what constitutes moral behavior. The Bible provides extensive guidance on how we ought to live and act. It offers universal moral laws, ethical guidelines, and timeless principles that instruct us on right conduct and outline the path to righteousness. Examining biblical texts on ethics sheds light on godly standards for human…
The Church of England is the officially established Christian church in England. It traces its history back to the earliest days of Christianity in Britain, and is considered to be both Catholic and Reformed. Here is a 9,000 word overview of the Church of England: History of the Church of England The Church of England has its roots in the early Christian church that existed in Britain from the 1st century AD, following the spread of Christianity from the Eastern Mediterranean and North Africa. By the 4th century, Christianity was widespread across what is now England. In 597 AD, Pope…
The term “pastor emeritus” refers to a pastor who has retired from full-time ministry but maintains an honorary relationship with the church he previously served. The word “emeritus” comes from the Latin word for “veteran” or “retired from active service.” In many churches, a pastor who retires after long tenure and faithful service may be given the honorary title of “Pastor Emeritus.” This allows the pastor to maintain ties with the congregation even after retiring from day-to-day leadership responsibilities. The Bible does not specifically mention the concept of a pastor emeritus. However, there are some biblical principles that can inform…
A “heathen” is someone who does not worship the God of the Bible. The word itself comes from the Old English word “hæðen,” meaning someone who lives on the heath or open country. In the Bible, the Hebrew word “goyim” and the Greek word “ethnos” are often translated as “heathen” or “Gentiles,” referring to people who did not worship Yahweh, the God of Israel. In the Old Testament, the nation of Israel was set apart to worship Yahweh exclusively. The neighboring nations were polytheistic, worshiping multiple gods. As a monotheistic people, the Israelites viewed polytheistic religions as idolatrous and sinful.…
The star of Bethlehem is mentioned only briefly in the Gospel of Matthew, but it has fascinated generations of astronomers, historians, and theologians. Matthew’s account tells how wise men or magi from the East were looking for the newborn King of the Jews and followed a star that led them to Bethlehem. There they found the baby Jesus and presented him with gifts. The identity of the star of Bethlehem has been debated for centuries. Various explanations have been proposed, including an actual astronomical event like a comet or planetary conjunction, a miracle or angelic light, or a literary invention…
The story of the little drummer boy is a popular Christmas tale, but it is not found in the Bible. The little drummer boy first appeared in 1941 in a book titled The Little Drummer Boy by Katherine K. Davis. In the story, a young poor boy plays his drum as a gift for the newborn Jesus after being told he is too poor to afford a proper present. The little drummer boy has since become a prominent figure in Christmas culture and entertainment despite having no biblical basis. There are several biblical accounts of the birth of Jesus, but…
The story of Moses is found throughout the Old Testament, specifically in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. Moses was chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt and eventually into the Promised Land of Canaan. However, despite leading the people for 40 years through the wilderness, Moses was not allowed to enter the Promised Land himself. The Bible provides several reasons why this was the case. Moses struck the rock at Meribah In Numbers 20, near the end of the 40 years of wandering in the wilderness, the Israelites were camped at Kadesh.…