A prolegomena is an introduction or preliminary discussion to a larger work. The singular form is prolegomenon. In biblical studies, a prolegomena refers to an introductory work that examines the background and context for studying and interpreting the Bible. Some key aspects covered in a biblical prolegomena include: The inspiration, authority, and inerrancy of Scripture The canonization of the Old and New Testaments The transmission of the biblical texts over time The original languages of the Bible (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek) Principles for biblical interpretation (hermeneutics) The historical and cultural settings of the biblical writings Different literary genres found in…
Author: Mike Solis
The concept of the “sea of forgetfulness” comes from several passages in the Bible that speak metaphorically about God forgetting our sins. Though the Bible doesn’t mention a “sea of forgetfulness” by name, this phrase has become a popular way to refer to God’s promise to forget the sins of those who repent. When the Bible talks about God “forgetting” our sins, it is not implying that God has a faulty memory or literally forgets things. Rather, it is using figurative language to describe how God forgives and washes our sins away. Once forgiven, He treats us as if we…
Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem were leaders who opposed the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the temple under Nehemiah’s leadership. Here is an overview of what the Bible tells us about each of these men: Sanballat Sanballat is first mentioned in Nehemiah 2:10 when he was “greatly angered” upon hearing that Nehemiah had come to Jerusalem to rebuild the city walls. Sanballat was likely a governor of Samaria appointed by the Persian empire (Nehemiah 4:1-2). He came from Horonaim, an area of Moab (Isaiah 15:5). Sanballat opposed the reconstruction efforts in Jerusalem and mocked the builders, questioning their intentions (Nehemiah 4:1-3). Along…
The priests of Nob were a group of Levitical priests who served at the tabernacle in the city of Nob during the time of King Saul. Nob was located just northeast of Jerusalem. The tabernacle and the ark of the covenant were located there after having been moved from Shiloh (1 Samuel 21:1). The first priest of Nob mentioned in the Bible is Ahimelech. When David was fleeing from Saul, he came to Ahimelech for help. Ahimelech gave David consecrated bread from the tabernacle and also gave him the sword of Goliath (1 Samuel 21:1-9). Ahimelech had a son named…
2 Chronicles 7:14 is a famous verse that says, “if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” This verse contains a powerful message of hope and restoration for God’s people. Let’s explore the meaning and significance of this important Bible passage. Context of 2 Chronicles 7:14 To properly understand this verse, we first need to comprehend the context in which it appears in Scripture. 2 Chronicles 7 records events after…
The phrase “I will lie down and sleep in peace” comes from Psalm 4:8 in the Bible. This verse is part of a Psalm that David wrote asking for God’s protection and blessing. The full verse says “In peace I will both lie down and sleep, For You alone, O Lord, make me to dwell in safety.” So what does it mean when the Bible says “I will lie down and sleep in peace”? Let’s explore this verse further. The Context of Psalm 4 Psalm 4 is attributed to David and is addressed to the Chief Musician, meaning it was…
Music is mentioned frequently throughout the New Testament, both in direct teachings and in various accounts and stories. Here is an overview of some of the key things the New Testament says about music: Music in Worship The New Testament shows that music was an integral part of worship in the early church. The disciples and apostles sang hymns together (Matthew 26:30, Acts 16:25). Paul instructs the church in Colossae to sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in their hearts to God (Colossians 3:16). He gives similar instructions to the church in Ephesus (Ephesians 5:19). The book of…
The Gospel of Nicodemus, also known as the Acts of Pilate, is an apocryphal gospel claimed to have been derived from an original Hebrew work written by Nicodemus, who appears in the Gospel of John as an associate of Jesus (John 3:1–21; 7:50–52; 19:39–42). This work is considered by most modern scholars to be pseudepigraphical, meaning it was attributed to Nicodemus but most likely was written much later by an unknown author. The Gospel of Nicodemus narrates Jesus’s Passion, including his trial and descent into hell. It is divided into two sections known as the Acts of Pilate and the…
Experiencing a severe physical trauma can be incredibly challenging, both physically and emotionally. In the aftermath of a traumatic event or diagnosis, people often struggle to make sense of their suffering and find hope amidst despair. For people of faith, spirituality can provide comfort, meaning and resilience during such times. The Bible offers wisdom, encouragement and peace to those enduring trauma and affliction. By leaning on God’s promises, we can find the spiritual strength to endure. Trust in God’s Sovereignty and Goodness Physical trauma reminds us of how little control we have over our circumstances. This can lead to fear,…
Faith and hope are two important concepts in the Christian life. While related, they are distinct in meaning. Understanding the differences between faith and hope can help Christians gain a deeper appreciation of what Scripture teaches about these vital aspects of our relationship with God. The Meaning of Faith The Bible defines faith as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1 ESV). Faith involves believing in and relying fully on the promises of God, even though we do not yet see their complete fulfillment. Through faith, we are convinced of spiritual realities that…