Loving others can often be challenging for a variety of reasons. As sinful human beings in a fallen world, our natural inclination is to be selfish and prioritize our own desires and needs above others. However, the Bible calls us to a radical, countercultural way of loving – the way of Jesus. Here are some biblical insights into why loving others is difficult and how we can grow in loving like Christ. Our Sinful Nature The Bible teaches that all human beings are born with a sinful nature that is innately turned inward upon ourselves. As Paul writes in Romans…
Author: Nicole Sands
The Valley of Succoth is an important location mentioned several times in the Bible. Succoth means “booths” or “shelters” in Hebrew, referring to the temporary shelters used by the Israelites during the Exodus from Egypt. The Valley of Succoth was the first place the Israelites stopped after leaving Egypt. The Valley of Succoth is located east of the Nile Delta in Egypt. It was here that the Israelites set up camp and built booths or shelters to live in temporarily as they began their journey to the Promised Land (Exodus 12:37). This is why the place was called Succoth. The…
The Bible does not explicitly use the terms “secular” and “sacred” to differentiate between two distinct realms. However, a close examination of Scripture reveals that God does make a distinction between that which is holy and set apart for Him, and that which pertains to common human life and culture. Though the Bible does not promote a strict separation between sacred and secular, it does present a framework for how believers are to live and operate within both realms. God’s Realm Versus Man’s Realm The Bible presents two overarching realms – the kingdom of God and the kingdom of man.…
A non-denominational church is a Christian church that is not affiliated with any specific denomination. The term “non-denominational” refers to churches that are not part of a larger denomination and have no external organization or oversight. Here are some key things to know about non-denominational churches: No affiliation with denominations As the name implies, non-denominational churches have no formal connection to any denomination. This means they are independent and set their own policies, practices, and governance. They are autonomous and self-sustaining without having to answer to a denominational hierarchy or authority. Some non-denominational churches may lean towards certain theological perspectives…
The Bible has a lot to say about compassion. At its essence, compassion is caring for others and wanting to relieve their suffering. As Christians, we are called to be compassionate just as God is compassionate towards us. Here is an overview of some of the major Bible passages that deal with compassion: Old Testament Teachings on Compassion The Old Testament law commanded compassion for the poor and needy. For example, Deuteronomy 15:7-8 says, “If there is a poor man among your brothers in any of the towns of the land that the Lord your God is giving you, do…
Vaccinations and vaccines are a complex and often controversial topic for Christians. There are various perspectives within the faith on whether vaccinations should be accepted or avoided. Ultimately, Scripture does not provide definitive teaching on this specific issue. Christians seeking wisdom on vaccinations should thoughtfully consider Bible principles, pray for discernment, and make a decision based on their conscience before God. Vaccination Supporters Some Christians view vaccinations as a blessing from God that should be embraced. They point to verses about using medicine and science to alleviate suffering (Matthew 10:8; James 5:14). They also highlight Biblical principles like loving our…
The Bible has a lot to say about courage, which is defined as the ability to confront fear, pain, danger, uncertainty, or intimidation. Courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to act in the face of fear. Here is an overview of some key Bible verses and passages about courage: Be Strong and Courageous God directly commanded Joshua to “be strong and courageous” as he prepared to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land (Joshua 1:6-9). This charge to courage is repeated multiple times throughout Joshua 1. God assured Joshua that He would be with him, so…
Sheep are mentioned over 500 times in the Bible, highlighting their importance both literally and symbolically in biblical times. As livestock, sheep provided food, milk, wool, and skins for clothing. But beyond their practical uses, sheep held deep symbolic meaning related to sacrifice, guidance, purity, and more. Sheep were among the most commonly sacrificed animals in ancient Israel. They were used for both regular offerings and sin offerings. For instance, Exodus 29 outlines the consecration ceremony for Aaron and his sons as priests, requiring the sacrifice of one young bull and two rams. Leviticus 4 specifies that if the high…
The Bible has a lot to say about how Christians should behave and conduct themselves. Here is an overview of some of the key biblical principles regarding Christian behavior: Love God and Love Others The two greatest commandments, according to Jesus, are to “love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” and to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:37-39). Loving God means having a close relationship with Him through prayer, Bible study, worship, and obedience. Loving others means treating them with kindness, compassion, patience, forgiveness, and selflessness. Be…
The United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI) is a Oneness Pentecostal denomination that was formed in 1945 when the Pentecostal Church Incorporated and the Pentecostal Assemblies of Jesus Christ merged. The UPCI derives its roots from the Pentecostal movement that began in the early 20th century, which emphasized baptism in the Holy Spirit evidenced by speaking in tongues. Here is an overview of the United Pentecostal Church and its key beliefs: History The origins of the UPCI can be traced back to the Pentecostal movement that started in the early 1900s. This movement emphasized the baptism in the Holy Spirit with…