Christian Publishing House Blog
Apologetic Defense of the faith, the Bible, and Christianity
This article delves into the origins of the Mishnah and its connection to God's Law as given to Moses. We explore the historical context, the development of Jewish law, and the role of the Mishnah in shaping the Jewish religious landscape (Judaism) before and after the fall of Jerusalem in 70 C.E., which Jesus condemned.
The passage meditates on the moral and theological significance of the biblical directive found in Exodus 23:19 against boiling a young goat in its mother's milk. More than culinary restraint, the law reflects Jehovah's compassionate stance against cruelty, paganism, and disrespect for life. The prohibition encourages followers to develop a heightened moral awareness, steer clear of paganism, upholding a distinct identity, and mirror Jehovah's qualities in their lives.
Explore the profound legacy of Jeremiah, an Old Testament prophet revered for his impactful prophecies and symbolic acts. From his divine commission to his recognition by biblical figures like Daniel, Ezra, and the Apostles Matthew and Paul, delve into the life and teachings of a prophet whose messages of faith, judgment, and hope resonate through biblical history.
In the sobering account of Leviticus 10, Moses confronts Eleazar and Ithamar after the death of their brothers. This detailed examination explores the deep-seated reasons behind Moses' anger and the spiritual and legal implications of their actions. It reveals a profound lesson on the balance between the letter of the Law and the intention behind obedience to God.
In 'Witnesses in the Wilderness,' we delve into the intricate Biblical Law of Evidence as applied within ancient Israel's judicial system. It explores the exception to the two-witness rule in cases of sexual assault, highlighting the protection of the innocent when no human witness is present. The article illuminates how the Mosaic Law valued truth and justice, with Jehovah as the ultimate witness to unseen transgressions.
Daniel's prophetic visions in the Book of Daniel detail a sequence of world-dominating empires symbolized by different elements and creatures. The statue in Daniel 2 and beasts of Daniel 7 represent Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome. Rome's extended influence is depicted as the feet of iron mixed with clay and the fourth, fearsome beast. Daniel's prophesies, fulfilled through actual historical events, highlight their accuracy and affirm the divine origin of the Scriptures, contributing to the debate against modern skepticism.
Prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah foretold the complete demise of Babylon in the Hebrew Bible. Their prophecies were realized with the conquest of Babylon by Cyrus the Great as part of the Medo-Persian empire in 539 B.C.E., with significant aspects like Babylon's waters drying up and its defense ceasing combat. The fall and lasting desolation of Babylon served as evidence of the Bible's predictive accuracy and divine origin, reinforcing its reliability and the notion of divine inspiration behind its writing.
Assyria, known for its aggressive territorial expansion and brutal war tactics, rose to prominence from the 14th century B.C.E., starting its journey towards world dominance. Imperial ambition propelled economic exploitation and military innovation, which resulted in immense wealth and an almost unbeatable army. However, despite its prowess, by the late 7th century B.C.E., political and military structures crumbled, and with the fall of Nineveh in 612 B.C.E., the Assyrian empire collapsed. Its story provides an example of divine providence and human agency and offers lessons on humility and divine judgment.
This comprehensive article dives into the compelling prophecies Isaiah and Ezekiel made against the ancient city of Tyre. Explore how these Old Testament prophets unveiled God's divine judgment on the city for its arrogance, pride, and materialism, and what these prophecies mean for believers today.
The Jewish temple police, agents of the religious authorities in the New Testament, played significant roles in key events such as Jesus' arrest. Their responsibility ranged from maintaining order and enforcing Jewish Law to arresting perceived threats to the religious establishment. Understanding their roles provides deep insights into the tension between the religious authorities and the early Christian movement, and enhances understanding of socio-religious dynamics of biblical history.