The story of Manasseh in 2 Chronicles 33 presents one of the most powerful pictures of God’s forgiveness in Scripture.
The Bible’s Counter-Cultural Anthropology
The Bible presents the essential dignity and nobility of humanity—a view that goes against the utilitarianism common today.
The Shema and Church Health
The Shema—Deuteronomy 6:4—provides a key for healthy new covenant communities today.
Easter, a Sunrise Service, and Ezekiel’s vision
This Easter, we look back on the resurrection with faith and look forward to Christ’s return with hope.
Facing Interpretative Giants
In interpreting the stories in the Old Testament historical books, like David and Goliath, look for the authorial intent and you will find the authoritative message.
Seeing and Responding to Scripture
When my wife and I had our honeymoon in Plymouth, Mass.—some 14 years ago now—we made the decision to drive the entire way. Now I know a 20-hour car ride on your honeymoon sounds like a bad idea, but it was really quite nice. On the way, we visited places like Hershey, Penn., Amish Country, and New York City. One … Read More
Choosing the Best Bible Translation
Clemson versus USC. Coke versus sweet tea. Krispy Kreme versus Dunkin Donuts. The mere mention of such subjects will likely spawn spirited squabbles among some South Carolina Baptists. But one topic towers above all in its potential to produce dissent and debate in the pews. No, not politics. Bible translations. When it comes to translations, most Christians have their preference, … Read More
Scripture and Tattoos
As an older Old Testament professor, occasionally I’ll receive random emails asking for the translation of certain English phrases into Hebrew. When I do, I can typically predict reason for the request: Tattoos are becoming increasingly common among the younger generation of believers. Some well-intentioned Christians have attempted to buck the trend by mustering biblical texts that seemingly prohibit the … Read More
The Sun of Righteousness
Based on what I hear, the trendiest stories that trend on Twitter these days are ones with “lists.” Top ten of this… Five ways of that… So as not to be accused of not being hip to modern modes of messaging, I’m offering my own list. As an Old Testament professor, sometimes I feel as if I have a neon … Read More