“…by the works of the Law no flesh is made righteous.” (Gal. 2:16c) In Paul’s letter to the Galatians, he mentions a curious encounter he had with Peter (a.k.a. “Cephas”), which Peter had visited the church in Antioch, and all had been well…until… Other Jewish christians came up from Jerusalem, and suddenly Peter got nervous. …
Tag Archives: bible
Spiritual Maturity
I’ve often used a metaphor for spiritual maturity that has helped myself and (I believe) others to transform the way we approach the subject. So I thought, “Why not share it here?” The metaphor is actually quite simple as it borrows from the traits of physical maturity. I won’t go into exacting detail here, but …
The Power of Stories
Did you know I’m an author? Sure, I’m a writer – I’ve been maintaining this blog for several years, and all that. But I’m also a novelist – a storyteller. (If you want to learn more about my writing career, my current projects and upcoming events, feel free to visit my website: http://www.joeloslund.com Also, if …
As Unto the Lord
Whatever you do, do it heartily, as unto the Lord (Col. 3:23) Once upon a time there was a dreadful distinction between secular work and Christian work, secular products and Christian products. While I’m not opposed to the idea of claiming our work and products to be unique because of our Christian values, we mustn’t …
Mythbusters!
“Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.” (Eph. 6:18 NLT) Did you ever watch that show? The stars of Mythbusters, Adam and Jamie, attempted to prove or disprove any manner of myths relating to the physical sciences. Some of …
Context Clues – Polytheism Pt. 12
Well here we are: part 12 of the polytheism context clue! I applaud you for toughing it out with me on this journey through one of the many context clues we could examine so as to better understand the world view and beliefs of the ancient Israelites. Today, we finally wrap up this little series. …
Context Clues – Polytheism Pt. 11
I finished the previous post with a bold claim. I suggested that, ‘yes,’ the Israelites were polytheists in a sense. I further went on to explain why I think we’re all equally polytheistic in the same way. Feel free to go back and give part 10 a read so as to refresh yourself on the …
Context Clues – Polytheism Pt 10
Okay, so were the ancient Israelites polytheists or not? What a wonderfully direct and pointed question. The answer, as you might have suspected, is much less direct and pointed: it depends. What do we mean when we use the word ‘polytheist?’ If you’ve been following along in the series, you’ll know that I’ve been focusing …
Context Clues – Polytheism Pt 9
Do you believe in ghosts? What about angels? Demons? Spirits? Gods? Last week, we took a moment to remember that the Bible was first written in a time that is not our own, in a place that is not our own, to a people and culture who are not our own. That means that any …
Context Clues – Polytheism Pt 8
Do you believe in ghosts? What an interesting question. It’s one we can answer in a number of different ways, and whatever answer we provide will offer an insight into the way we think and view the world. How would I answer the question? I would respond as I often do, by saying: “It depends.” …
