The Atbash code is a simple substitution cipher used in the Hebrew Bible. It involves replacing the first letter of the Hebrew alphabet (aleph) with the last letter (tav), the second letter (bet) with the second to last letter (shin), and so on. This results in a reversed alphabet where each letter is substituted for its mirror image letter. There are several examples of Atbash being used in the Bible: Jeremiah 25:26 and 51:41 use Atbash to encode the name Sheshach, which is code for Babylon. Jeremiah 51:1 uses Atbash for Leb Kamai, which is code for Chaldea. So why…
Author: Tim Collings
The verse 1 Thessalonians 5:21 states “but test everything; hold fast what is good”. This verse encourages believers to carefully examine and discern what is truly good and wholesome, and cling firmly to those beliefs, teachings, and practices. Let’s explore the meaning and application of this important verse. The Context of 1 Thessalonians 5:21 1 Thessalonians 5:21 comes in the context of Paul’s exhortations to the Thessalonian church concerning living in holiness and godliness while also being watchful for Christ’s return. Beginning in verse 12, Paul urges the believers to “respect those who labor among you and are over you…
The doctors of the church are saints recognized for their important contributions to theology and doctrine through their research, study, and writing. The term ‘doctor of the church’ does not mean they were academics or had earned doctorates, but rather that they were known as authoritative teachers of faith and morals. While the specific number of doctors can vary between denominations, the Catholic Church officially recognizes 36 saints with this title. Some of the most well-known include St. Augustine, St. Ambrose, St. Jerome, and St. Thomas Aquinas. The formal designation of “doctor of the church” began in the Middle Ages,…
The verse in Titus 1:15 states “To the pure, all things are pure, but to the defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure; but both their minds and their consciences are defiled.” This verse teaches an important truth about how our heart condition impacts how we view the world around us. Let’s explore what it means in more detail: 1. Purity starts from within The Bible makes it clear that true purity is first an internal matter of the heart before it manifests externally. Proverbs 4:23 states “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.”…
Postmodernism is a philosophical and cultural movement that became popular in the late 20th century. It is characterized by skepticism, subjectivism, relativism, and the denial of universal truth. From a biblical perspective, there are several dangers associated with postmodern thought: 1. Denial of Objective Truth A core tenet of postmodernism is that there is no one universal and objective truth. Rather, truth is subjective and dependent on an individual’s experiences and cultural background. This directly contradicts the biblical view that there are absolute moral truths which come from God. The Bible is clear that truth exists and it is rooted…
The red heifer, known in Hebrew as parah adumah, is a cow described in the Bible that had very special significance in ancient Jewish ritual purification practices. The Bible first mentions the red heifer in Numbers 19, where God instructs Moses and Aaron regarding the use of a red heifer for purification from sin and impurity. The Ritual of the Red Heifer According to Numbers 19, the red heifer was to be without defect or blemish, and it was to be taken outside the camp and slaughtered (Numbers 19:3). Its blood was to be sprinkled seven times toward the front…
The Holy of Holies was the innermost and most sacred area of the ancient Jewish Temple in Jerusalem. It housed the Ark of the Covenant and was separated from the rest of the temple by a thick curtain. Only the High Priest could enter the Holy of Holies, and even then only once a year on the Day of Atonement. This was to make atonement for the sins of the people of Israel. The High Priest’s entrance into the Holy of Holies on the Day of Atonement was a solemn and risky occasion, as God’s presence resided there. There is…
Communication is a key part of human relationships and society. The Bible has a lot to say about how we should communicate with others. Here is an overview of some of the main biblical principles about communication: Be truthful and honest The Bible strongly emphasizes honesty and truthfulness in all our communication. Lying, deceit, and dishonesty are repeatedly condemned in Scripture (Proverbs 6:16-19, 12:22, Ephesians 4:25). We are to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) and avoid all forms of false testimony (Exodus 20:16). Our communication should reflect integrity and build trust. Be gracious and edifying The Bible instructs…
The question of whether Mary consented to being the mother of Jesus is an important one for understanding her role in salvation history. The Bible indicates that Mary was informed of her unique calling and gave her willing consent, even though she did not fully understand all that it would entail. Looking at the relevant biblical passages helps shed light on this significant issue. The Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38) The key passage relating to Mary’s consent is the annunciation, where the angel Gabriel informs her that she will conceive and bear the Son of God. This event is recorded in Luke…
The Bible has a lot to say about the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil that is taking place in the heavenly realms. As Christians, it is important for us to understand the nature of this battle and how it impacts our lives so that we can respond appropriately. In this approximately 9,000 word article, we will explore what the Bible teaches about the following aspects of spiritual warfare: The Existence of a Spiritual Battle The Bible affirms the reality of an invisible spiritual realm that exists alongside the physical world we inhabit (Ephesians 6:12). This spiritual realm includes…