prompt stringlengths 0 158 | response stringlengths 14 40.2k |
|---|---|
What does “until Christ is formed in you” mean (Galatians 4:19)? |
Answer
In Galatians 4:8–20, the apostle Paul expresses deep concern over the wayward spiritual condition of the Galatians. The church had come under the influence of [Judaizers](Judaizers.html) who preached a false gospel combining God’s grace with human works. As a result, the Galatians had slid back into reli... |
Why are we instructed, “Do not give dogs what is sacred” in Matthew 7:6? |
Answer
Millions of people worldwide have pet dogs that they care for and love. Yet, in the ancient world, people didn’t have the same fondness for man’s best friend. As the Bible illustrates, people thought dogs were disgusting (Luke 16:21\), dumb (Proverbs 26:11\), and worthy of disdain (1 Samuel 17:43\).
... |
Who was David Livingstone? |
Answer
David Livingstone (1813—1873\) was a Scottish medical missionary to Africa, a passionate explorer, and a philanthropist who worked to expose the horrors of the slave trade and halt it at the source. Despite his prickly disposition, Livingstone became a national British hero in his lifetime and remains one... |
What is the wall of separation (Ephesians 2:14)? |
Answer
The initial three chapters in Ephesians illuminate God’s actions on our behalf, and within this context, Ephesians 2:14 states, “For [he himself is our peace](He-Himself-is-our-peace.html), who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility.” The “wall of hostili... |
What does “that your joy may be full” mean (John 15:11)? |
Answer
To conclude His metaphor of the [vine](true-vine.html) and the branches (John 15:1–10\), Jesus says to His disciples, “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full” (verse 11\). To understanding the meaning of “your joy may be full,” we first need to review p... |
What does it mean that Jesus’ voice was like the sound of rushing waters (Revelation 1:15)? |
Answer
The [book of Revelation](Book-of-Revelation.html) is replete with symbols and figurative language, as demonstrated in Revelation 1:15 where John employs two [similes](simile-in-the-Bible.html): “His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters.” In this ve... |
What is the Satanic Temple? |
Answer
The Satanic Temple is an advocacy organization based in Salem, Massachusetts, that embraces the devil as a literary figure to amplify and advance its beliefs and values in society. Lucien Greaves and Malcolm Jarry founded the Satanic Temple in 2013\. The organization promotes events and symbols that refle... |
What does it mean that God is not the God of the dead (Matthew 22:32)? |
Answer
Mathew 22:32 concludes an exchange Jesus had with the [Sadducees](Sadducees.html) concerning the resurrection of the dead, best understood when read with the prior verse: “But about the resurrection of the dead—have you not read what God said to you, ‘I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God... |
What is the Word of life in 1 John 1:1? |
Answer
In 1 John 1:1, John begins his letter by proclaiming the Word of life: “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life.” The “Word of life” refers to Jesus, and can ... |
What does it mean that one will be taken and the other left (Matthew 24:40)? |
Answer
Jesus’ words can often be challenging, and many scholars face interpretive difficulties with the part of the [Olivet Discourse](Olivet-discourse.html) where Jesus says, “Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and t... |
Who is the accuser of the brethren in Revelation 12:10? |
Answer
Revelation 12:10 is part of a chapter encompassing past, present, and future events. As the scene unfolds, a resounding voice proclaims, “Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Messiah. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them be... |
What does it mean that God is faithful (1 Corinthians 1:9)? |
Answer
Paul often includes a note of thanksgiving in his letters, and 1 Corinthians 1:9 concludes his thanksgiving in his letter to Corinth with these words: “God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” Here, Paul glorifies God for the spiritual blessings and gifts b... |
What does it mean that Jesus had godly fear (Hebrews 5:7)? |
Answer
Hebrews 5:7 says, “During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.” The KJV translates “reverent submission” as “he feared,” implying that Jesus possesse... |
Why did Jesus refer to the temple as “my Father’s house” (John 2:16)? |
Answer
Although Jesus is described in Scripture as a lamb (John 1:29; Acts 8:32\), He wasn’t always gentle and quiet. In fact, He flipped tables on occasion, as recorded in John 2:16 when He [cleansed the temple](temple-cleanse.html) the first time. During that event, Jesus exclaimed, “Get these out of here! St... |
What is sin? |
Answer
The Bible expresses the complex concept of [sin](definition-sin.html) from various standpoints through several Hebrew and Greek words. This article will explore some of those words to understand the nature of sin and its relation to God’s character. Nevertheless, a central idea in Scripture is that sin is... |
What does it mean to believe in the name of the Son of God (1 John 5:13)? |
Answer
In 1 John 5:13, we encounter the profound statement, “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.” Jesus is “[the Son of God](Jesus-Son-of-God.html),” whose name John refers to in this passage. John, a devoted disciple of the Lord,... |
What does it mean that heaven is God’s throne (Matthew 5:34)? |
Answer
In Matthew 5:34, as part of the [Sermon on the Mount](sermon-on-the-mount.html), Jesus cautions His disciples against swearing oaths “by heaven, for it is God’s throne.” This segment of Jesus’ teachings underscores the significance of displaying integrity [without resorting to oaths](let-your-yes-be-yes-a... |
What is spiritual milk (1 Peter 2:2)? |
Answer
First Peter 2:2 reads, “Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation.” In the previous verse, Peter had urged his readers to rid themselves of sinful behaviors and the desires of the natural man. As they laid aside “all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, e... |
What does it mean that no one has seen God (1 John 4:12)? |
Answer
First John 4:12 says, “No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.” The same assertion that no one has ever seen God can be found in other parts of Scripture, such as John 1:18\. But what does this statement signify, especially in light of Mos... |
What did Jesus mean when He said, “Neither do I condemn you” in John 8:11? |
Answer
Jesus’ statement, “Neither do I condemn you,” is found in John 8:11 and comes in the context of the judgment of a [woman taken in adultery](John-7-53-8-11.html). In John 7:53—8:11, a woman is brought to Jesus by the scribes and Pharisees after she was caught in the act of adultery. Adultery, however, is n... |
What does it mean that God resists the proud (1 Peter 5:5)? |
Answer
First Peter 5:5 says, “Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for ‘God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble’” (NKJV). Here, Peter draws from Proverbs 3:34 to motivate Christians to adopt an atti... |
What is “the blood of the covenant” in Hebrews 10:29? |
Answer
The author of the [book of Hebrews](Book-of-Hebrews.html) carefully detailed the superiority of the New Covenant over the Old. In Hebrews 10:29, the higher consequence of disregarding the New Covenant is emphasized: “How much more severely do you think someone deserves to be punished who has trampled the ... |
What is the law of the Spirit of life (Romans 8:2)? |
Answer
In Romans 8:2, Paul draws a sharp contrast between the law of the Spirit of life and the law of sin and death with this statement: “For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.” This serves as a powerful testament to the action God has taken on behalf o... |
What does it mean that there is a way that seems right to a man (Proverbs 14:12)? |
Answer
Proverbs 14:12 states, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death” (ESV). This proverb lays down a truth that echoes all the way back to the fall of man (Genesis 3\). It *seemed* right to Adam and Eve to take the fruit, but its end was the way of death for all creation (Rom... |
What does “how can they hear without a preacher” mean (Romans 10:14)? |
Answer
Romans 10:14 underscores the crucial role of [evangelism](world-evangelism.html): “How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?” (NKJV). This question, central to Paul’s life, shou... |
What is the meaning of “May the God of hope fill you” in Romans 15:13? |
Answer
In Romans 15:13, the apostle Paul writes, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope” (ESV). Here, the word [*hope*](definition-of-hope.html) refers to “joyful and confident expectation of eternal salvation” (*Thayer’s ... |
What does it mean that those who humble themselves will be exalted (Matthew 23:12)? |
Answer
The Jewish teachers and religious leaders of Jesus’ day—the [scribes](scribes-Jesus.html) and [Pharisees](Pharisees.html)—exhibited many undesirable traits. Chief among them were pride and hypocrisy. In Matthew 23:1–12, Jesus warns His followers not to imitate their despicable behavior, concluding with th... |
What does it mean that the church should be without spot or wrinkle (Ephesians 5:27)? |
Answer
In a discussion about [marriage](definition-of-marriage.html) using Christ and the church as a metaphor, Paul writes of Christ’s sacrifice in Ephesians 5:25\. He then explains the purpose of Christ’s death on behalf of the church: “He did this to present her to himself as a glorious church without a spo... |
Is digital evangelism/online evangelism effective? |
Answer
Digital evangelism involves using the internet, social media, mobile applications, and websites to share the message of salvation in Jesus Christ, make Christian disciples, and further the work of God’s kingdom on earth. Between 2010 and 2014, some of the world’s largest evangelistic organizations, includ... |
If I struggle with a habitual sin, does that mean I am not saved? |
Answer
On this side of heaven, every Christian will [struggle with sin](struggling-with-sin.html). The apostle John writes to believers of every generation: “If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth” (1 John 1:8, NLT, see also 1 John 1:10\). If Christians were destine... |
What are the springs of living water in Revelation 7:17? |
Answer
Revelation 7:17 says, “For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.” Other translations refer to the springs of living water as “living fountains of waters” (NKJV) or the “springs of the wa... |
What does it mean that He will give his angels charge over you (Psalm 91:11)? |
Answer
Angels are spiritual beings who assist God. One task assigned to [angels](angels-Bible.html) is to carry out God’s sovereign protection over humans. In a time of crisis, the psalmist was assured:
For He \[Yahweh] shall give His angels charge over you,
To keep you in all your ways.
In their ha... |
Why does God exist? What is the reason for God’s existence? |
Answer
Logic, mathematics, and philosophy all make use of axioms. In those contexts, axioms are concepts that must be accepted but cannot be proved or disproved. A simple example is that numbers equal themselves: *x \= x*. Another is the law of non\-contradiction, which says that mutually exclusive statements ca... |
What is an earth angel? |
Answer
The fact that humans are intensely fascinated with angels may account for many false and fabricated beliefs concerning them. According to one New Age teaching, “earth angels” are a unique hybrid or evolved breed of angels that are born into a physical body. These incarnated celestial beings, sometimes cal... |
What does it mean to rejoice with those who rejoice (Romans 12:15)? |
Answer
Romans 12:15 encourages [empathy](Bible-empathy.html), urging believers to “rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep” (NKJV). In this chapter, Paul switches from the teaching of doctrine to a discussion of practical living. He opens with the admonition, “I appeal to you therefore, brot... |
What did Paul mean by the “Holy Scriptures” in 2 Timothy 3:15? |
Answer
Second Timothy 3:15 is part of Paul’s encouragement to [Timothy](life-Timothy.html) to reject false teaching and apostasy by adhering to sound doctrine, which Timothy had learned from childhood. In verse 14, [Paul](life-Paul.html) urges Timothy to “continue in what you have learned and have become convinc... |
What does “pressed down, shaken together, and running over” mean in Luke 6:38? |
Answer
In Luke 6, Jesus describes the way His faithful followers are to live. In verses 27–38, He zeroes in on heart attitudes, teaching His disciples to cultivate an inner generosity of forgiveness, [grace](definition-of-grace.html), and love: “Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn oth... |
Why is it more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35)? |
Answer
Acts 20:35, part of Paul’s address to the elders of the church of Ephesus, declares, “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” These words of Jesus are not found... |
What does “imitate me as I imitate Christ” mean (1 Corinthians 11:1)? |
Answer
In closing a section of teaching on the nature of Christian freedom (1 Corinthians 10:23–11:1\), the [apostle Paul](life-Paul.html) issued this bold directive: “And you should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ” (verse 11:1, NLT). Christian freedom can be summed up as following Jesus Christ’s example or... |
What is the meaning of “false humility” in Colossians 2:23? |
Answer
In Colossians 2:23, Paul concludes his critique of man\-made commands, restrictions, and teachings by stating, “Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self\-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual... |
What are the kosher dietary laws? |
Answer
In Judaism, there are various laws that determine what foods can and cannot be eaten, as well as how those foods are to be prepared. Collectively these laws are referred to as the “kosher dietary laws,” or sometimes just “kosher laws.” The word *kosher* is derived from the Hebrew word *kasher*, which simp... |
“Mary, did you know?”—how much did Mary know? |
Answer
“Mary, Did You Know?” is a popular Christmas song written by Mark Lowry and Buddy Greene. The song gives an indirect account of Jesus’ works during His life. The song takes the unique perspective of asking [Mary](virgin-Mary.html) if she knew Jesus would do all the things He did. Imagine: a young [virgin]... |
What does it mean to be servants of God (1 Peter 2:16)? |
Answer
In 1 Peter 2:16, we are instructed to “live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover\-up for evil, but living as servants of God” (ESV). This directive is set within a specific context of submission to authorities and the broader context of Christian living on this side of eternity. Altho... |
What does it mean that Jesus became wisdom from God (1 Corinthians 1:30)? |
Answer
Many of the believers in the [Corinthian church](church-in-Corinth.html) were spiritually immature, lacking a proper understanding of the essential truth of the gospel. In 1 Corinthians 1:18–31, the apostle Paul wrote to clear up their misunderstandings and explain what Jesus Christ’s death on the cross t... |
What does it mean that God is the Lord of the harvest (Matthew 9:38)? |
Answer
In Matthew 9:35–38, Jesus travels throughout Galilee, teaching the good news of the [kingdom of God](kingdom-of-God.html) and preparing His disciples to carry on His ministry. He looks at the crowds in their confused and vulnerable state and is filled with compassion. Because the spiritual needs were so g... |
What does it mean that God gives grace to the humble (1 Peter 5:5)? |
Answer
In 1 Peter 5:5, a clear distinction is made between God’s attitude toward two categories of people, the proud and the humble: “Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble’... |
What does “Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound?” mean (Romans 6:1)? |
Answer
In Romans 6:1, the apostle Paul asks believers a rhetorical question, “What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound?” (ESV). This question reflects a common criticism of Paul’s teaching, both in his time and ours. Critics argue that preaching about [boundless grace](grace-of-Go... |
What does “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” mean in Matthew 3:17? |
Answer
At the baptism of Jesus, a voice from heaven declares, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17, ESV). In this verse, Jesus is confirmed as the divine and eternal Son of God (cf. John 1:1, 14\). This revelation is important for several reasons:
The [baptism of Jesus](Jesus... |
What does “washing of water by the word” mean (Ephesians 5:26)? |
Answer
Ephesians 5:25–27 uses Christ’s unique role as the one who sanctifies the church as a model for how a husband should love and care for his wife. These verses say that “Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that ... |
What are the “material possessions” referred to in 1 John 3:17? |
Answer
First John 3:17 says, “If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?”
This rhetorical question reveals God’s will for Christians who have “the world’s goods” (ESV) or “enough money to live well” (NLT). They... |
What does the Bible say about queerplatonic relationships? |
Answer
In the last decade, the LGBTQ community has increasingly recognized and supported individuals who identify as [asexual](Bible-asexuality.html), defined as “a sexual orientation in which a person has little or no sexual attraction to others.” As evidence of this, the LGBTQ community updated their initials ... |
What is a thought crime? Is a thought crime a biblical concept? |
Answer
A thought crime is a concept taken from the dystopian novel *Nineteen Eighty\-Four* by George Orwell. In this novel, the ultra\-authoritarian government ruling over the country Oceania has a division known as the Thought Police, or “Thinkpol,” which actively prosecutes individuals who have any thoughts co... |
What is emotional intelligence? |
Answer
God created human beings with the ability to experience a wide range of emotions. From happiness to sadness, emotions are universal human experiences, transcending culture, age, gender, and social status. People often perceive emotions as fluid, but imagine if they could be quantified, assessed, and fine\... |
Was Jesus a Palestinian? |
Answer
To answer this question, we should carefully define terms. References to [Palestine](difference-Israel-Palestine.html) have taken on different meanings and different implications from their historical use. Jesus’ first coming to earth was as a Middle Eastern man, native\-born in Bethlehem; this is current... |
Who was Gladys Aylward? |
Answer
Gladys May Aylward (1902—1970\) was a British missionary to China who escorted nearly one hundred orphaned children on a dangerous journey through the mountains to safety during the Japanese invasion of China in 1938\. Alan Burgess’s 1957 biography of Gladys Aylward (*The Small Woman*) focused the interna... |
Who was Adoniram Judson? |
Answer
Adoniram Judson, Jr. (1788—1850\) was a pioneering foreign [missionary](Christian-missionary.html) to India and Burma, the first Protestant missionary sent from North America. He was instrumental in launching the Congregationalist Church sending agency known as the American Board of Commissioners for Fore... |
Why did God put us on earth instead of taking us immediately to heaven? |
Answer
The Bible says that God created the earth for a purpose, and that purpose is His glory (Psalm 19:1–2; 50:6; Isaiah 6:3; Romans 11:36\). The earth is God’s possession (Deuteronomy 10:14; Exodus 9:29; Psalm 24:1; 89:11; 95:4–5; Acts 7:49; Colossians 1:16–17; 1 Corinthians 10:26; Revelation 4:11\), and it is... |
Who was Mary Slessor? |
Answer
Mary Mitchell Slessor (1848—1915\) was a Scottish Presbyterian [missionary](Christian-missions.html) to West Africa. She advocated to improve conditions for women and worked tirelessly to protect native children. Among her notable achievements was putting an end to the abusive tribal practice of twin infa... |
What is cosmonomic philosophy? |
Answer
Cosmonomic philosophy is associated with Dutch thinker Herman Dooyeweerd. His approach considered *meaning* to be the fundamental nature of reality, rather than *existing*. Along those lines, Dooyeweerd defined the universe through two factors: entities and laws. Entities are “things.” All entities are su... |
Who was David Brainerd? |
Answer
David Brainerd (1718—1747\) was a pioneering missionary who worked with Native Americans during the [First Great Awakening](First-Second-Great-Awakening.html) in North America. He is remembered most for the extraordinary account of his life published by Jonathan Edwards, a famous Puritan theologian and re... |
Who was C. T. Studd? |
Answer
Charles Thomas Studd (1860—1931\) was a British missionary who served in China, India, and Africa. He also founded the Worldwide Evangelization Crusade. Despite being born into privileged circumstances and attaining athletic fame early in life, C. T. Studd (as he was known) relinquished everything to live... |
Why did Jesus say to “do this in remembrance of Me” in Luke 22:19? |
Answer
On the night before He died, Jesus Christ shared a [Passover](what-is-Passover.html) meal with His apostles. Traditionally, Passover commemorated God’s deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Yet, during the meal, Jesus gave fresh meaning to the bread and wine, identifying them as symbols of ... |
What does it mean to rob Peter to pay Paul? |
Answer
The phrase *to rob Peter to pay Paul* means “to take something from one party and give it to another, especially if the two are closely associated with one another.“ Similar phrases include *to borrow from Peter to pay Paul* or *to unclothe Peter to clothe Paul*. The phrase is commonly used to describe th... |
What determines if a person goes to heaven or hell? |
Answer
John 3:16–18 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever ... |
What was the Moral Majority? |
Answer
The Moral Majority was a conservative political organization in the United States founded in June of 1979 by the Baptist minister Jerry Laymon Falwell (1933—2007\). The group’s primary objectives were to inform and mobilize a conservative, predominantly Christian base of voters to elect morally upright ca... |
What is the Christian Coalition of America? |
Answer
The Christian Coalition of America is a grassroots conservative political organization advocating for the rights of people of faith in the United States. The original entity, the Christian Coalition, was founded by [Marion Gordon “Pat” Robertson](Pat-Robertson.html) (1930—2023\) in 1987 to mobilize and in... |
What is the Feast of Stephen? |
Answer
The Feast of Stephen, also known as Saint Stephen’s Day, is an annual event in the liturgical calendar that commemorates the life of [Stephen](life-Stephen.html), the first Christian martyr. Stephen was one of the seven men chosen by the twelve apostles to help oversee the distribution of food to some of ... |
What does the Bible say about how to stop hating yourself? |
Answer
Self\-loathing (or hating oneself) is a serious problem of how one perceives himself before the eyes of God (if this person is a believer). It is yet a more serious issue for someone who does not believe in God, for this person is left to use his or her own standard of judging one’s right or wrong actions... |
If we talk to loved ones who have died, do they hear us? |
Answer
The desire to talk to our loved ones who have died is a natural part of the grieving process. We ache to see them one more time, hear their voices again, or tell them something we wish we had said. We find ourselves hoping that our loved one can listen from heaven and respond. Good\-intentioned friends ma... |
Why did God order the killing of people in the Old Testament? |
Answer
From the beginning, God assigned exceedingly great [value to human life](sanctity-of-life.html): “So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them” (Genesis 1:27, NLT). God told Noah that He would “demand an accounting for the life of anoth... |
What is the core message of the Minor Prophets? |
Answer
The Minor Prophets, sometimes referred to as “the Book of the Twelve,” make up the final section of the Old Testament. They consist of Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. The “minor” designation pertains solely to their shorter length in co... |
What does “church of the firstborn” mean in Hebrews 12:23? |
Answer
The phrase *church of the firstborn* is found in Hebrews 12, a chapter that speaks to the differences between [Mt. Sinai](mount-Sinai-significance.html) (where the law was delivered) and [Mt. Zion](Zion.html), the dwelling place of God. Verses 18–21 recall the giving of the law on Mt. Sinai and the fact ... |
What does it mean that “the goodness of God leads to repentance” (Romans 2:4)? |
Answer
In Romans 2:3–4, the apostle Paul addresses a Jewish audience (see Romans 2:17\), cautioning them against [hypocrisy](Bible-hypocrisy.html) and judgmentalism. He points out that their condemning of the Gentiles for sins they also committed showed contempt for the patience, tolerance, and goodness of God t... |
What does it mean to have a good conscience (1 Timothy 1:5)? |
Answer
In 1 Timothy 1:3–11, the apostle Paul instructs his protégé Timothy on how to deal with false teachers in the church. After giving a brief description of their false teachings (verses 3–4\), Paul explains why he wants Timothy to stop these destructive and divisive ideas from spreading: “The goal of this c... |
What is the core message of the Major Prophets? |
Answer
The Major Prophets, which include the books of [Isaiah](Book-of-Isaiah.html), [Jeremiah](Book-of-Jeremiah.html), [Lamentations](Book-of-Lamentations.html), [Ezekiel](Book-of-Ezekiel.html), and [Daniel](Book-of-Daniel.html), have an important role in the Bible. They are called “Major Prophets” because they... |
What does it mean that knowledge puffs up (1 Corinthians 8:1)? |
Answer
In 1 Corinthians 8:1–13, the apostle Paul responds to a question from the Corinthians regarding meat that had previously been [sacrificed to idols](food-sacrificed-idols.html). He begins, “Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that ‘We all possess knowledge.’ But knowledge puffs up while love builds... |
Who wrote the book of Genesis? Who was the author of Genesis? |
Answer
The [book of Genesis](Book-of-Genesis.html), as its name implies, is a narrative of beginnings. Its alternate name *Bereshith*—meaning “in the beginning”—derives from the opening line of the book. Genesis chronicles the origin of the universe, our first parents, and the rebellion that corrupted both creat... |
Who wrote the book of Exodus? Who was the author of Exodus? |
Answer
The [book of Exodus](Book-of-Exodus.html) is the second book in the Pentateuch, or the Torah, in the Hebrew Bible. It forms a part of what Christians call the Old Testament. The title “Exodus,” derived from the [Greek Septuagint](septuagint.html), alludes to the pivotal event in the book: the Israelites’ ... |
Who wrote the book of Leviticus? Who was the author of Leviticus? |
Answer
The [book of Leviticus](Book-of-Leviticus.html), also known as the third book of Moses, constitutes the third book of the Torah, or [Pentateuch](Pentateuch.html). Like other books in the Torah, it is traditionally attributed to [Moses](life-Moses.html) and has a direct connection with the book of Exodus. ... |
Who wrote the book of Numbers? Who was the author of Numbers? |
Answer
The [book of Numbers](Book-of-Numbers.html) is the fourth book of the Torah. It was written by Moses.
The book of Numbers derives its name from a census Moses conducted on the people of Israel, specifically targeting “the men twenty years old or older who are able to go to war” (Numbers 1:2, NLT). B... |
Who wrote the book of Deuteronomy? Who was the author of Deuteronomy? |
Answer
The fifth book of the [Torah](what-is-the-Torah.html), also known as the books of Moses, derives its title from the [Greek Septuagint’s](septuagint.html) “*to deuteronomion*,” meaning “second law” or “repeated law.” In Hebrew, it is called *Debarim*, translated as “the words.” As the Greek title implies, ... |
What is the significance of sheep without a shepherd (Matthew 9:36)? |
Answer
The role of a shepherd is to watch over, feed, protect, guide, comfort, and sustain the flock under his care. Spiritual leaders have a similar responsibility toward the people entrusted to their oversight. While Jesus traveled the countryside ministering to the crowds, He felt deep concern for the people ... |
What does the Bible say about incense? |
Answer
When God liberated the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, their geographical destination was the Promised Land. Yet, the ultimate purpose of their freedom was to enable them to worship God without restriction (e.g., Exodus 5:1\). After crossing the parted Red Sea, God instructed the Israelites to build the... |
Who was Howard Hendricks? |
Answer
Dr. Howard George Hendricks (1924—2013\) was an American author, speaker, pastor, and professor. He served on the Dallas Theological Seminary (DTS) faculty for more than six decades until his retirement in 2011 as professor emeritus of Christian Education and Leadership. He founded and chaired the Center ... |
How did Satan and other angels sin if heaven is sinless? |
Answer
The Bible teaches that [Satan](Satan-in-the-Bible.html) was created in perfection and given a prominent position in heaven (Ezekiel 28:11–15\). He was “full of wisdom and perfect in beauty” (verse 12\). God appointed him the highest\-ranking angel. From his place of great privilege, Satan led possibly [on... |
What is a divine appointment? |
Answer
When someone speaks of a divine appointment, he or she is likely referring to an extraordinary event in a believer’s life or a significant spiritual encounter with another person. The timing, purpose, and outcome of the experience seem to be orchestrated by God rather than simply random chance or [coincid... |
What does it mean when God says, “I am with you” (Isaiah 41:10)? |
Answer
In Isaiah 41, God begins to outline His redemption plan for the [remnant of Israel](Bible-remnant.html). The Jewish people would encounter many hardships and challenges on their long journey home. Without a doubt, they would experience fear during the enormous undertaking of rebuilding in the days ahead. ... |
Who wrote the book of Joshua? Who was the author of Joshua? |
Answer
There is no explicit mention of authorship in the [book of Joshua](Book-of-Joshua.html), but tradition suggests that Joshua either wrote the entire book or supervised a significant portion of the text. Several factors support Joshua as the primary author of this book, including the use of insider informat... |
Who wrote the book of Judges? Who was the author of Judges? |
Answer
The author of the [book of Judges](Book-of-Judges.html) does not identify himself. The book covers a period in Israel’s history when the nation was led by judges, valiant leaders and warriors God chose to liberate Israel from various oppressors. The book records several times when the Israelites rebel aga... |
Who wrote the book of Ruth? Who was the author of Ruth? |
Answer
The events recounted in the [book of Ruth](Book-of-Ruth.html) are situated in the period documented in the book of Judges, suggesting a common authorship. Although the biblical narrative positions Ruth as an interlude between the times of the judges and kings, the Hebrew Bible includes it in the [*Ketuvim... |
Who was H. A. Ironside? |
Answer
Henry (Harry) Allen Ironside (1876—1951\), better known as H. A. Ironside, was a Canadian\-American Bible expositor, pastor, theologian, and author. During his first and only tenure as a pastor, serving at the Moody Memorial Church in Chicago from 1930 to 1948, his distinction as a [fundamentalist](fundam... |
What does “the Lord is my helper” mean (Hebrews 13:6)? |
Answer
Citing Psalm 118:6, the author of [Hebrews](Book-of-Hebrews.html) writes, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?” (Hebrews 13:6, ESV). Here, believers are encouraged to rely on God for all their needs, especially in times of persecution. Because the Lord is on our side, we do not ... |
Who wrote the book of Psalms? Who was the author of Psalms? |
Answer
Few books in the Old Testament are as popular among modern readers as the book of Psalms. The ancient yet timeless collection of poems, hymns, and prayers tackles various issues in life. The psalms invite readers to connect to God through praises, thanksgiving, and even cries of lament. In addition to emo... |
Who wrote the book of Proverbs? Who was the author of Proverbs? |
Answer
The [book of Proverbs](Book-of-Proverbs.html) was written mainly by Solomon, although portions come from other authors. The book of Proverbs is an example of wisdom literature in the Old Testament, and it stands out as a primary source on biblical wisdom. Its practical principles resonate widely, appealin... |
Who wrote the book of Ecclesiastes? Who was the author of Ecclesiastes? |
Answer
The books of Ecclesiastes and Job boldly address life’s discomforts. While Job centers on the suffering of the innocent, [Ecclesiastes](Book-of-Ecclesiastes.html) adopts a more cynical tone on life in general, proclaiming that all human endeavors are ultimately fleeting and meaningless. The theme “all is ... |
What does it mean to do the work of an evangelist (2 Timothy 4:5)? |
Answer
In Christian ministry, the role of an evangelist is important. For this reason, the apostle Paul exhorts [Timothy](life-Timothy.html) to “always be sober minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry” (2 Timothy 4:5, ESV). To understand what it means to “do the work of an e... |
Who is God the Father? |
Answer
God the Father. [God the Son](God-the-Son.html). [God the Holy Spirit](God-the-Holy-Spirit.html). One God existing in three eternal Persons. The full truth of the [Trinity](Trinity-Bible.html) is beyond our reach intellectually, but we accept it by faith because it is taught in the Bible.
According ... |
Who is God the Son? |
Answer
Understanding the nature of the [Trinity](Trinity-Bible.html) is a difficult and challenging task. However, the church father [Augustine](Saint-Augustine.html) once said, “There is no subject where error is more dangerous, research more laborious, and discovery more fruitful than the oneness of the Trinit... |
Who is God the Holy Spirit? |
Answer
There is no way to perfectly and completely understand the [Trinity](Trinity-Bible.html). But the Bible is clear that the One True God exists eternally in three Persons: [Father](God-the-Father.html), [Son](God-the-Son.html), and Spirit. We properly speak of three Persons who share the same divine essence... |
Who wrote the book of Ezra? Who was the author of Ezra? |
Answer
In the Hebrew Bible, the [book of Ezra](Book-of-Ezra.html) is considered a unified work with the book of Nehemiah. However, some commentators propose that they were initially two distinct books that were later joined together in the Hebrew canon. In our Bibles, Ezra is a separate book that precedes Nehemi... |
Subsets and Splits
Top Long Responses
Returns the prompts and responses where the response length falls within a specified range, ordered by decreasing length, which provides basic insight into the distribution of response lengths.