In the early church, this was particularly relevant for those in ministry, underscoring the importance of supporting those who dedicate their lives to the Gospel. Historically, this reflects a shift from a purely agrarian society to one where various forms of labor are recognized and valued. ...
The ideal process is to come to the Bible by first working hard to study what it means. The next step is to reflect, in the power of the Holy Spirit, on the meaning of the passage for your own life and community. Reflection will bring up more questions about the meaning of...
andcloseproximityofsuchdiversity,significantreligiousconflictswere in factrare.Although thechurchandsociety werepatriarchalandindeed,sexismwasstrong, my familyupbringingwasquite liberating.Iobservedmyparentsplayingnon-normative genderroles;my dadwas gentleandcaring,while my momwasalocal leader workingfor the mu-...
We can learn about studying the Bible from good teachers and scholars; however, most of us have more to learn about reflecting on the Bible for spiritual growth. There are techniques and practices that the church has learned over the years that can benefit each of us. Think what it is lik...
The unloving, critical, judgmental nature of people in church or in public can do more to convince an unbeliever that God doesn’t exist or, at the least, not want a part of it. So, they will retreat to friends and flock together in their community where love is expressed. The wars ...
There are multiple passages comparing Christians to a body, with Christ as its head. And that body is held together and moves by way of its joints. After telling about the gifts God has given to the church in teachers, shepherds, and evangelists to help the church mature and equip the ...
the Christmas Star. We can let our light so shine before men—and our families who don’t always see eye-to-eye on what Christmas is about. Live as Jesus would live. Speak as Jesus would speak; with love in our hearts that shines like the Christmas Star that can lead others to ...
Therefore, the church can make a big deal about someone who did good works and was a God Influencer, but all who are in Christ are saints and described as such in God’s irrefutable word. Brothers and Sisters, if you are in Christ, you are a saint called to honor him. You will kno...
by understanding he set the heavens in place.” The simple experience enthralled me so much because perceiving so many wonderful things that fit together so perfectly was the very act of experiencing the wisdom of God. Looking at the scene, thinking about what I had just read, and ...
= writings must be shared and brought to the church Conformity = rule of faith, writings must reflect the tradition of churn about J&C teachings donor stay truth Divine inspiration God working and inspiring others to do something Canon Texts that are to be counted as the Bible by the church ...