Bible Study Guide: 1 Thessalonians

There is always room for improvement. In Paul’s first letter to the church in Thessalonica, he congratulates them for their faith, but also encourages them to continue becoming even more holy. What makes 1 Thessalonians unique? This short letter provides a close look at the personal relationship Paul had… Read More

Bible Study Guide: 2 Thessalonians

Suffering is hard. The author of this book encourages the Thessalonians to remain faithful in the midst of suffering. He also informs them about Christ’s return, the time when their suffering will cease. What makes 2 Thessalonians unique? As in 1 Thessalonians, the author thanks God that the Thessalonian… Read More

Faith

Faith is a gift God gives us. Nurture it and it will bring richness and fulfillment to your life. In the Bible, faith often means trust in God, but it can also refer to a set of beliefs or religious ideas. The Hebrew word sometimes translated as “faith “… Read More

Ignatius of Antioch

Stand up for what you believe in. Ignatius of Antioch did. See how this disciple of John lived his life and contributed to the early Christian community. Ignatius, along with Polycarp, was a disciple of John when he was in Ephesus in the latter part of the first century. Read More

Miracles, Magic, and Medicine

How are miracles different from magic? What role does medicine play in magic? Find out here. The Bible is a book of faith, telling the story of how God acted in history to protect and save humankind. Miracles are an important part of that story. Read More

Paradise

The term paradise appears several places throughout the Old and New Testaments. Find out the background of the word and how it relates to heaven. Topics: Heaven, Paradise, Eternal Life The Hebrew word for “paradise” was borrowed from the Persian word which means a wooded park where everything… Read More

Messiah

At the time of the New Testament Jews were anxiously awaiting the coming of the Messiah, or Anointed One. Find out why the Gospels use this title for Jesus. The Hebrew word “Messiah” means “anointed one,” and is usually translated in the Contemporary English Version as “chosen one.” … Read More

Martyrdom

The Greek word for martyr means “witness.” In the New Testament martyrs were individuals were those who bore witness to the life, death and work of Jesus. Two words, “martyr” and “witness,” are translated from the same Greek word, martys. The earliest meaning for the word is probably “witness.”… Read More