The issue of whether churches should accept money that was obtained through unethical or sinful means is an important one for believers to consider carefully. There are several key principles from Scripture that can guide our thinking on this matter. Wealth itself is not condemned in Scripture First, it is important to note that the Bible does not universally condemn wealth or the possession of money. Genesis 13:2 tells us “Abram was very rich in livestock, in silver, and in gold.” Abraham, whom God chose to begin the nation of Israel, was a wealthy man. The book of Job describes…
Author: Tim Collings
Creativity is a gift from God that allows us to glorify Him and serve others. Though the word “creativity” itself is not found in Scripture, the Bible has much to say about God’s creative nature and how He has gifted humanity with creative abilities. Here are some key Bible verses about creativity: Genesis 1:1 “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” This famous first verse of the Bible affirms that God is the supreme Creator of all things. He spoke the universe into existence out of nothing. God’s unfathomable creativity is the source of all creativity. Genesis…
God’s promises are a central theme throughout the Bible. Here are some key Bible verses about God’s promises: God’s promises are trustworthy and true “God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it?” (Numbers 23:19) “Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.” (Proverbs 30:5) “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” (Matthew 24:35) “In hope…
The killing of Saul’s descendants as retribution for Saul’s slaughter of the Gibeonites is recorded in 2 Samuel 21. After a three-year famine in Israel, David inquired of the Lord and was told it was because of Saul’s bloody persecution against the Gibeonites. In response, David asked the Gibeonites what could be done to make atonement so that they would bless the inheritance of the Lord. The Gibeonites requested that seven of Saul’s male descendants be delivered to them for execution. David acquiesced to their request and handed over Armoni and Mephibosheth, two sons of Saul by his concubine Rizpah,…
Barnabas was an important early Christian disciple and missionary mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles. His original name was Joseph, but the apostles called him Barnabas, meaning “son of encouragement” (Acts 4:36). Barnabas was a Levite from Cyprus and was one of the first converts to Christianity after the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He was a generous man of faith who sold a field he owned and gave the money to the apostles to support the early church (Acts 4:36-37). Here is an overview of Barnabas’ life and ministry as described in the Bible: Barnabas’ Background The Bible first…
Saint Thomas Aquinas was an incredibly influential Dominican friar, Catholic priest, and Doctor of the Church who lived in the 13th century. He was a scholar who had a profound impact on Western philosophy and theology. Here is an in-depth look at his life, teachings, and legacy. Life and Education Thomas Aquinas was born circa 1225 in Roccasecca, Italy, near Aquino, the castle of his wealthy noble family. As a young boy, he began his education at the Benedictine abbey of Monte Cassino, where he stayed until the age of 14. He then studied at the University of Naples. It…
Gambling is an activity that involves wagering money or other valuables on an event with an uncertain outcome, with the intent of winning more money or material goods. Though gambling has existed for thousands of years, the Bible contains principles that advise against the practice of gambling. Here is an overview of some notable Bible passages that pertain to gambling and games of chance: Proverbs 13:11 – Wealth from get-rich-quick schemes will dwindle away. “Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.” (Proverbs 13:11 ESV) This proverb warns that trying to attain wealth quickly…
Thaddeus is mentioned a few times in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospels and the Book of Acts. He was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. Let’s take a look at what the Bible says about this lesser-known apostle: Thaddeus and the Twelve Apostles The Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) include Thaddeus in the lists of the twelve disciples or apostles of Jesus (Matthew 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:14). He is usually listed as “Thaddeus” but sometimes referred to as “Judas son of James” (Luke 6:16; Acts 1:13). This is likely to distinguish him from Judas…
Growing in grace is an important concept for Christians. It refers to the process of becoming more like Christ through the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. As we grow in grace, we become more loving, joyful, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle and self-controlled (Galatians 5:22-23). Here is an in-depth look at what it means to grow in grace. It is God’s work in us First and foremost, growing in grace is the work of God in our lives. We cannot achieve it by our own human efforts. The Bible says “For by grace you have been…
In the Bible, tithes and offerings are two distinct forms of giving to God. Understanding the differences between the two is important for Christians seeking to honor God through generous and obedient stewardship. What are Tithes? The word “tithe” comes from the Old English word “teotha,” meaning “tenth.” Biblically, tithing refers to the practice of giving 10% of one’s income or increase to God. Tithing is an act of worship, expressing thankfulness and faith in God’s provision. As an act of obedience, tithing was instituted by God Himself and was practiced by His people throughout the Bible. The first mention…