John 3:16 is one of the most widely quoted verses from the Christian Bible. It has also been called the "Gospel in a nutshell," because it is considered a summary of the central theme of traditional Christianity. Martin Luther called John 3:16 “The heart of the Bible, the Gospel in miniature.” The Father had sent his... Continue Reading →
BIBLICAL WORD OF THE DAY: Adoption: (Gr. huiothesia)
Adoption: (Gr. huiothesia) The Greek noun is a legal term that literally means “adoption as son,” which means to take or accept a son or daughter who is not naturally such by relationship, including complete inheritance rights. The apostle Paul mentions adoption several times in reference to those with a new status as called and... Continue Reading →
Colossians 1:24 BDC: How was Christ’s sacrifice “lacking”?
Colossians 1:24 Updated American Standard Version (UASV) 24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the congregation.[1] The Bible is quite clear that the corresponding ransom sacrifice of Jesus Christ was one... Continue Reading →
What Does the Bible Really Say About the Ransom?
In the Bible, the concept of ransom is mentioned a number of times and is often associated with the idea of paying a price in order to redeem or deliver someone from bondage or captivity. One of the most well-known references to ransom in the Bible is found in the New Testament in the book of Mark, where Jesus says, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" (Mark 10:45).