The topic of spiritual enlightenment is one that has been debated among Christians for centuries. On one hand, some argue that the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment aligns with Biblical teachings about seeking wisdom, understanding, and a deeper relationship with God. Others caution that the term “enlightenment” has roots in Eastern religions and philosophies that may be at odds with Christian beliefs. What guidance does the Bible provide on this complex issue? Defining spiritual enlightenment First, it is helpful to define what is meant by “spiritual enlightenment.” In a broad sense, it refers to a deep understanding of spiritual truth that…
Author: Nicole Sands
The city of Laodicea is mentioned several times in the Bible, primarily in relation to one of the seven churches addressed in the Book of Revelation. Laodicea was an important regional center in the Roman province of Asia (located in modern-day Turkey) and home to one of the early Christian communities established during the first century AD. The Book of Revelation includes seven messages directed to seven major churches of Asia Minor. Among these is the church at Laodicea, to which a lengthy and highly critical letter is addressed in Revelation 3:14-22. This passage provides important insights into the spiritual…
Vacation Bible School, commonly referred to as VBS, is a Christian education program conducted by many Protestant churches for children during the summer months. It typically involves a week-long program of religious education which may include Bible stories, songs, crafts, games, and other activities all centered around a particular theme. The purpose of VBS is to teach children the fundamentals of the Christian faith in a fun and memorable way during their summer vacation from school. The origins of VBS can be traced back to the late 19th century Sunday school movement in England. With industrialization, families were spending less…
The issue of whether refusing medical treatment is a sin is complex, with reasonable arguments on both sides. Ultimately, the Bible does not provide a definitive answer, and Christians have differed in their perspectives. This article will examine key biblical principles and passages that relate to this question. Sanctity of life One of the strongest cases against refusing treatment rests on the sanctity of human life. Multiple verses affirm the value of life and our responsibility to preserve it (John 10:10; Acts 17:25). Life is a gift from God that we are called to steward wisely as faithful servants (Luke…
The topic of the end times and when they will occur has been debated by Christians for centuries. Some believe we should actively try to hasten the return of Christ, while others think we should not concern ourselves with timing and instead focus on living faithfully. What does the Bible teach about this issue? Let’s explore some key biblical passages and themes. God’s sovereignty over timing The first thing to recognize is that the timing of Christ’s return and the end times is completely in God’s hands. Jesus said, “But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not…
Pornography has become increasingly prevalent and accessible in our modern digital age. With porn sites just a click away, many Christians struggle with temptation in this area. A common rationalization is “I’m just looking at porn, I’m not actually lusting after the person.” But is simply viewing pornography without lust okay for a follower of Christ? What does the Bible have to say about this complex issue? Let’s break this down into a few key points: 1. Pornography objectifies and dehumanizes people At its core, pornography commodifies and exploits human beings who are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27). It…
2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” This verse teaches us that when someone becomes a Christian, they become a new person spiritually. Their old sinful nature dies, and they are made new in Christ. Let’s explore this verse more deeply. The Context of 2 Corinthians 5:17 Paul wrote 2 Corinthians to defend his ministry against false teachers who had infiltrated the church at Corinth. In chapter 5, Paul explains that all believers will one day stand before Christ to be judged…
The Bible has a lot to say about fools and foolish behavior. Here is an overview of some of the key characteristics of a fool according to Scripture: Fools despise wisdom and instruction The book of Proverbs repeatedly warns that fools despise wisdom and reject instruction and correction. They have no interest in gaining understanding or knowledge. “Fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (Proverbs 1:7) “A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion.” (Proverbs 18:2) “Whoever corrects a scoffer gets himself abuse, and he who reproves a wicked man incurs injury. Do not reprove a scoffer,…
The verse in question, 1 Corinthians 13:12, states “For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.” This verse comes in the midst of Paul’s famous discourse on love in 1 Corinthians 13, and serves as a transition between Paul’s description of love as the greatest spiritual gift and his subsequent discussion of prophecy and tongues in chapter 14. So what does Paul mean when he says “now we see in a mirror dimly”? This metaphor of seeing dimly…
The verse in question, 1 Timothy 2:11, states “Let a woman learn quietly with all submissiveness.” This verse has sparked much debate and discussion regarding the role of women in the church. A full examination of the context and background of this passage is needed to properly understand its meaning. The Context of 1 Timothy First Timothy was written by the apostle Paul to his younger co-worker Timothy. Timothy was leading the church in Ephesus, a major city in the Roman province of Asia. Ephesus was influenced by Greek culture and religion, which viewed women as inferior to men. The…
