The Sadducees and Pharisees were two influential Jewish sects during the time of Jesus Christ. While both groups wielded significant religious and political influence, they had some notable differences in their beliefs and practices. Origins and History The Sadducees emerged around 200 BC, during the Second Temple period of Judaism. They tended to come from elite priestly families and had close ties to the Temple administration and Sanhedrin leadership. Their name likely comes from Zadok, the high priest during King David’s reign (2 Samuel 8:17). The Pharisees also formed during the Second Temple period, sometime between 135-104 BC. Unlike the…
Author: Matt Primack
Temperance is an important virtue emphasized throughout the Bible. Here is an overview of what the Bible says about temperance and self-control: Definition of Temperance The word “temperance” comes from the Greek word egkrateia, which means self-control or mastery over one’s desires and passions. Temperance is the virtue that moderates attraction to pleasures and provides balance in the use of created goods. It ensures mastery of the will over instincts and keeps desires within the limits of what is honorable. Temperance as a Fruit of the Spirit In Galatians 5:22-23, temperance is listed as one of the fruits of the…
The Bible has a lot to say about manipulation, which is the act of exerting control or influence over someone or something to serve one’s own purposes. At its core, manipulation stems from selfishness and a desire to fulfill one’s own agenda at the expense of others. Here is an overview of some key biblical principles regarding manipulation: 1. Manipulation is sinful The Bible makes it clear that manipulating others is wrong in God’s eyes. Passages like Galatians 5:19-21, Romans 1:29-31, and 2 Peter 2:1-3 describe manipulative behaviors like selfish ambition, deceit, and exploitation as sinful works of the flesh.…
The Fruit of the Holy Spirit – What is Faithfulness? Faithfulness is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23. It refers to being full of faith and exhibiting steadfast devotion to God. A faithful person adheres to God’s truths and commands despite trials or temptations to do otherwise. Faithfulness springs from an abiding trust in God and His promises. What Does it Mean to Be Faithful? Being faithful means being steadfastly loyal to someone or something. Biblically, it means being unwaveringly devoted to God regardless of circumstances. A faithful follower of Christ clings to God’s…
The Song of Solomon, also known as the Song of Songs, contains some of the most beautiful and poetic verses in all of Scripture. In chapter 2 verse 7 it says, “I adjure you, O daughters of Jerusalem, by the gazelles or the does of the field, that you not stir up or awaken love until it pleases.” This verse has puzzled many readers over the years and requires some explanation to properly understand it in its context. First, we must recognize that the Song of Solomon is a love poem depicting the love between a man and a woman.…
The brief account of saints being raised to life at Jesus’ death in Matthew 27:52-53 has puzzled many Bible readers over the years. Let’s take a close look at the passage: The tombs also were opened. And many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised, and coming out of the tombs after his resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many. (Matthew 27:52-53) This passage comes right after Matthew’s account of the death of Jesus on the cross. After Jesus “yielded up his spirit” (v. 50), Matthew records a number of miraculous events that…
Skepticism of religion has become increasingly common in modern society for a variety of reasons. Some of the key factors that have contributed to this trend include: Scientific advancements As science and technology have progressed, more and more aspects of the natural world that were previously unexplained or attributed to divine forces have found naturalistic explanations. The Big Bang theory, evolution, neuroscience – these and other scientific breakthroughs have provided alternatives to religious narratives about cosmic origins, human origins, consciousness, and more. This has led some to view religion as less relevant or even outdated in an age of science.…
Jehovah’s Witnesses are sincere in their faith but hold to doctrines that differ from orthodox Christianity. When witnessing to Jehovah’s Witnesses, it’s important to remember that they are people who deserve respect even when disagreeing with their beliefs. The key to reaching them is focusing on the truths of Scripture and the centrality of Jesus Christ. Understanding Jehovah’s Witness Beliefs Jehovah’s Witnesses refer to themselves as “Jehovah’s organization” and believe they alone represent true Christianity. Central to their beliefs are: God’s name is Jehovah Jesus is the Son of God but not divine The Holy Spirit is God’s active force,…
Objective truth refers to absolute truth that is true at all times and in all places, independent of human perception or belief. According to the Bible, God is the ultimate source and foundation of objective truth. Here are some key biblical teachings on objective truth: God’s Word is Truth The Bible affirms that God’s Word is truth. Jesus declared “Your word is truth” (John 17:17). The psalmist wrote “The sum of your word is truth” (Psalm 119:160). God’s Word reveals objective truths that transcend time, culture and human understanding. God’s truth is eternal and unchanging. Jesus is Truth Jesus said…
The Book of Revelation, the final book of the New Testament, has sparked much interest and debate over the centuries. Written by the apostle John while exiled on the island of Patmos, Revelation contains vivid imagery and symbolism depicting the end times and the second coming of Christ. Here are some common questions people have about the intriguing Book of Revelation: What genre of literature is Revelation? Revelation is an example of apocalyptic literature, a genre of religious writing popular in ancient Judaism and early Christianity. Apocalyptic literature is symbolic in nature and reveals hidden truths about the end times,…