I want to cover a topic that is sometimes overlooked or at least under-emphasized when discussing Bible study. That is the fact that proper interpretation is a matter of spiritual guidance, not just grammar, syntax, and context. Even a thorough knowledge of the original languages of the BIble (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek) is no substitute for the active work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. Continue reading
Monthly Archives: May 2012
Featured Resource – Week of 05/06/2012
A Ready Defense by Josh McDowell
Thomas Nelson, 1992
496 pages
ISBN-10: 0840744196
This is a great resource for strengthening and defending your faith. This book begins by upholding the authority of the Bible. It addresses supposed contradictions and criticisms of God’s Word. After laying that groundwork, a section on Jesus Christ shows that He is truly God incarnate and why Jesus must be exactly Who He claimed to be.
There are lengthy sections comparing Christianity with non-Christian religions, cults, and occult phenomena. This is particularly helpful for defending your faith in light of these religious systems.
A section on most asked questions about Christianity covers common objections and inquiries people have when confronted with the person of Jesus Christ. This is valuable information that often comes up when sharing your faith with others.
The final section covers the uniqueness of the Christian faith. The emphasis here is on how lives are changed through Jesus Christ.
The book is formatted so that it can be read from front to back or used as a reference book for specific topics. The subject matter is divided into 45 chapters, so most chapters are relatively small and great for quick reading on a particular issue.
Our Spiritual Battle
Ephesians 6:10-12 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
It is tempting for the Christian to focus on the physical things of life. Being physical beings, this is natural. So, we concern ourselves with how we look, maintaining our homes and cars, performing the chores we need to do, etc. There is nothing wrong with this. However, human beings also have a spiritual side. This is where we will find the most difficult areas of our life. Continue reading