Anthropomorphism refers to the attribution of human characteristics or behavior to a god, animal, or object. In theology and religious studies, anthropomorphism specifically applies to the portrayal of God with human qualities or forms. The Bible contains numerous examples of anthropomorphic depictions of God. However, theologians have long debated the appropriateness and implications of anthropomorphizing the divine. Anthropomorphic portrayals of God in the Old Testament The Old Testament frequently speaks of God in very human terms. God is described as having human attributes like eyes, ears, arms, hands, feet, voice, breath, and more. For example: You have seen what I…
Author: Kristal Wheatley
The Bible has a lot to say about being an overcomer. An overcomer is someone who perseveres through trials and temptations, standing firm in their faith and obedience to God. Here is an overview of some key biblical themes about overcoming: Overcoming the World The Bible tells believers not to love the world or the things of the world (1 John 2:15-17). The “world” represents the fallen human system opposed to God and His ways. Followers of Christ need to be on guard against the world’s values, pleasures, priorities, and compromise. While Christians are in the world, they are not…
The doctrine of the priesthood of all believers asserts that all Christians have direct access to God through Jesus Christ, and that there is no need for an ordained priestly class to serve as mediators between God and his people. This doctrine emerged prominently during the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, though its roots can be traced back to the early church. The key biblical support for this doctrine comes from several passages: 1 Peter 2:5, 9 Peter refers to believers collectively as “a holy priesthood” and “a royal priesthood” who should “offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through…
Contentment is an important theme in the Bible that is discussed throughout both the Old and New Testaments. The Bible encourages believers to be content and find satisfaction in God rather than in earthly possessions or status. Here is an overview of some of the key Bible passages about contentment: Old Testament Teachings on Contentment In the Old Testament, contentment is often portrayed as finding satisfaction and sufficiency in God rather than in material wealth. For example: Proverbs 30:8-9 – “Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me, lest I be full…
The spiritual gift of healing is a supernatural ability given by the Holy Spirit to certain believers to serve as a conduit for God’s healing power. The purpose of this gift is to glorify God and confirm the truth of the gospel message (Mark 16:20). Those with the gift of healing are used by God to bring physical, emotional, and spiritual restoration to people in need. The gift of healing is listed in 1 Corinthians 12:9 as one of the gifts of the Spirit given to believers. Other references to the spiritual gift of healing are found in passages such…
The term “aliyah” refers to the immigration of Jews from the diaspora to the Land of Israel. It is a Hebrew word meaning “ascent” or “going up”, referring to the act of spiritually “ascending” to the Holy Land. The concept of aliyah is central to Zionism and has played a major role in the history and development of the modern State of Israel. According to the Hebrew Bible, God promised the Land of Israel to the Jewish people. However, after the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE, most Jews were exiled from the land. For centuries, Jews prayed…
The central message of the Bible is that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, loves every single human being unconditionally and eternally. This profound truth can encourage and strengthen believers in their faith journey. Let’s explore what the Bible teaches about Jesus’ love. 1. Jesus’ love is sacrificial Jesus willingly left his heavenly glory to take on human flesh and die for our sins (Philippians 2:6-8). Though completely innocent, he suffered extreme pain and death by crucifixion to pay the penalty for our sins (1 Peter 2:24). This demonstrates the depth of his love, as he gave his life to…
The teleological argument, or the argument from design, is an argument for the existence of God based on the apparent order and design in the universe. The basic argument is that the universe and living things exhibit too much complex design and purpose to have come about by chance. Therefore, the design we see in nature must be the product of an intelligent designer – God. There are several variations of the teleological argument that have been proposed throughout history by philosophers and theologians. But they all follow the same basic line of reasoning that the appearance of design in…
The Bible contains many references to alcohol and drinking. While the Bible recognizes that alcohol can be misused and lead to drunkenness, it does not forbid alcohol altogether. Instead, the Bible encourages moderation and self-control when it comes to alcohol consumption. Here is an overview of some of the key biblical passages that mention alcohol and drinking: Wine as a Blessing from God Several passages in the Bible present wine in a positive light, as a gift and blessing from God when used rightly. For example: “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce;…