David is one of the most well-known figures in the Bible. He is described as a man after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). Yet David’s life was filled with ups and downs, highs and lows. Though far from perfect, David sought after God’s own heart. Here is an overview of how David could be considered a man after God’s own heart: David’s Humility and Repentance Despite his position and power as king, David remained humble before God. When the prophet Nathan confronted David about his sin with Bathsheba, David responded with repentance instead of excuses. He openly admitted his…
Author: Kerry Baysinger
Saint Jerome (c. 347-420 AD) was an important scholar and theologian who translated the Bible into Latin. He is considered one of the four Great Doctors of the Latin Church. Here is an overview of his life and accomplishments: Jerome was born in Stridon (in modern-day Slovenia or Croatia) to a wealthy Christian family. As a young man, he was educated in Rome and was baptized there. After completing his education, Jerome traveled extensively and lived as a hermit for several years in the Syrian desert, dedicating himself to study and ascetic practices. In 382, Jerome was called to Rome…
Comedy is a complex art form that elicits laughter and amusement. As Christians, how should we view comedy and participate in it in a way that honors God? First, it is important to recognize that humor and laughter are gifts from God. Ecclesiastes 3:4 says there is “a time to weep and a time to laugh.” Laughter has many benefits – it relieves stress, improves mood, strengthens relationships, and promotes overall health. God created laughter and our ability to find joy and amusement in life. Therefore, comedy itself is not inherently wrong or sinful. However, as with all parts of…
One of the key teachings of Christianity is that Jesus Christ fulfilled the Old Testament law, but did not abolish or discard it. This concept can be confusing for some, but it is an important doctrine to understand. When we examine what the Bible says about Jesus and the law, a few key principles emerge: The Purpose of the Law The law was given by God to the Israelites to provide a code of conduct and system of worship. The moral laws revealed God’s holy standards for human behavior. The ceremonial laws instituted the sacrificial system and rituals that allowed…
The theological virtues are faith, hope and charity (love). They are called “theological” because their object is God. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the theological virtues “adapt man’s faculties for participation in the divine nature” (CCC 1812). They are infused by God into the faithful and “dispose Christians to live in a relationship with the Holy Trinity” (CCC 1812). Faith Faith is defined in Hebrews 11:1 as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” It is the virtue by which we believe in God and all He has revealed. By faith “man…
The question of whether the Bible teaches situational ethics is an important one. Situational ethics is the view that the moral rightness or wrongness of an action depends on the context and circumstances, rather than following absolute moral rules. Some argue that the Bible allows for situational ethics in certain cases, while others believe the Bible presents unchanging moral absolutes. There are several passages in the Bible that could potentially support situational ethics. For example, when Jesus’ disciples picked grain on the Sabbath, which was against religious law, Jesus defended them (Matthew 12:1-8). This suggests situational factors like hunger took…
Ratramnus and Radbertus were two 9th century Christian theologians who debated the nature of Christ’s presence in the Eucharist. Their debate represented an important milestone in the development of Eucharistic theology in the Catholic Church. Ratramnus was a Benedictine monk from the monastery of Corbie in northern France. He served as the monastery’s librarian and wrote several theological treatises. Little is known about his early life, but he was an educated man known for his sound judgment and moderate theological views. Radbertus (often called Paschasius Radbertus) was a fellow Benedictine monk at Corbie who eventually became the monastery’s abbot. He…
The word “halo” does not appear in most English translations of the Bible. However, the concept of a glowing circle or disk of light around a person’s head is associated with the divine and holy in Scripture. In the Bible, light and radiance are often used as symbols of God’s glory, presence, and blessing. Moses’ face shone after being in God’s presence (Exodus 34:29-35). Jesus’ face became “like the sun” when He was transfigured (Matthew 17:2). Revelation describes God the Father as dwelling in “unapproachable light” (1 Timothy 6:16) and says Jesus’ face “was like the sun shining in full…
Should a Christian join a fraternity or sorority? This is a question many Christian college students face. There are arguments on both sides of this issue. Let’s look at what the Bible says that may apply. Arguments For Joining Here are some common arguments for why a Christian may want to join a fraternity or sorority: It provides a built-in community and friend group on campus. It allows you to live with like-minded people who share common interests and values. It gives opportunities for leadership, service, and personal growth. It creates valuable connections and networking opportunities. It continues a family…
The relationship between church and state has been debated for centuries. As Christians, how should we view the separation of church and state? What does the Bible say about the roles and responsibilities of government leaders versus church leaders? Let’s explore what Scripture teaches on this important topic. Biblical Basis for Separation of Church and State The Bible does not explicitly address the separation of church and state, since this concept originated much later in history. However, there are some key passages that reveal principles for how the church and state should interact. In the Old Testament, ancient Israel was…
