The concept of the Demiurge originates in Gnosticism, a set of ancient religious beliefs that were considered heretical by early Christian writers. The Demiurge was seen as a lesser divine being, subordinate to the supreme God. He is associated with the material world, which Gnostics regarded as fundamentally flawed and evil. The Demiurge was believed to have created the physical universe. However, he was viewed as ignorant, flawed, and tyrannical. The Gnostics contrasted the Demiurge with the true, transcendent God who represents goodness, wisdom and light. While the Demiurge thought he was the supreme being, the Gnostics believed he was…
Author: Tim Collings
In Matthew 23:26, Jesus criticizes the scribes and Pharisees for focusing on outward appearances rather than inward purity. He states, “You blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and the plate, that the outside also may be clean.” This verse has been interpreted in different ways, but the overall message seems to be that Jesus cared more about internal righteousness than external rituals. Here are some key points to understand this verse in context: Jesus was speaking to the scribes and Pharisees, religious elites who were strict about observing ceremonial laws but often neglected justice, mercy and faithfulness…
The binding of Satan for a thousand years is described in Revelation 20:1-3, which says “Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, holding in his hand the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain. And he seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years, and threw him into the pit, and shut it and sealed it over him, so that he might not deceive the nations any longer, until the thousand years were ended. After that he must be released for a little while.” This…
Hur was a prominent figure in the Old Testament, most known for holding up Moses’ hands during the battle against the Amalekites. He was the grandfather of Bezalel, the gifted artisan who constructed the tabernacle. While little is known about Hur’s origins and life, examining the biblical accounts where he appears provides insight into his faithfulness and leadership. Hur in Exodus 17 The first mention of Hur is in Exodus 17 during the Israelites’ wilderness wanderings after being freed from Egypt. The Amalekites came and attacked them at Rephidim. Moses told Joshua to gather men for battle while he stood…
The fruit of the Holy Spirit is the result of the Holy Spirit’s work in a believer’s life. As Christians, we are called to exemplify these godly virtues that the Holy Spirit produces in us. The Bible lists nine specific fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” When we walk in the Spirit and allow Him to work in our lives, these fruits will become evident as our character is formed into Christ’s image. Let’s take a…
Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Torah and the Christian Old Testament. Its title means “second law” and it serves as a reminder to the Israelites of the laws God gave them through Moses. Here are some common questions people have about Deuteronomy: What is the setting of Deuteronomy? Deuteronomy takes place as the Israelites are encamped on the plains of Moab, preparing to enter the Promised Land after 40 years of wandering in the wilderness. Moses gives them a series of speeches and teachings as a reminder of what God expects of them once they enter Canaan. This…
Does the Bible say anything about making a second marriage a success? Introduction Getting remarried can be a complicated and difficult process, especially for Christians who want to honor God in their relationships. For those who have lost a spouse through divorce or death and are seeking to marry again, questions naturally arise about what the Bible says concerning remarriage. Is it permitted? What issues should be considered? How can a second marriage be successful in the eyes of God? While the Bible does not give direct commands about remarriage in every situation, there are principles and examples that can…
Speaking in tongues is a controversial spiritual gift in Christianity. Those who believe it is evidence of having the Holy Spirit point to passages in Acts and 1 Corinthians. Critics argue it was only meant for the early church. What does the Bible say about tongues and the Holy Spirit? Description of tongues in the Bible The first reference to speaking in tongues is in Acts 2:1-13. On the day of Pentecost, the disciples were gathered together when the Holy Spirit filled them and enabled them to speak in other languages. Verse 4 states, “And they were all filled with…
The book of Proverbs contains many wise sayings and teachings that provide practical guidance for how to live a godly life. Proverbs 13:12 states: “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life.” This proverb offers insight into the emotional and spiritual impact that unmet expectations can have on a person. The first part of the verse tells us that “hope deferred makes the heart sick.” When we hope and wait expectantly for something good that does not come, or is delayed significantly, it can cause our hearts to become “sick” with disappointment, discouragement…
Hannah was an important woman in the Old Testament. She was one of two wives of Elkanah, along with Peninnah. Hannah was beloved by Elkanah, but was unable to have children. This caused her great anguish and she prayed fervently to God for a child. God answered her prayer and she gave birth to Samuel, who went on to become a great prophet and judge over Israel. Hannah’s story illustrates strong faith and trust in God in the face of adversity. We first learn about Hannah in 1 Samuel 1. She was one of two wives of Elkanah, an Ephraimite.…