Tag: scripture

Faith Comes From Hearing

Carl Pollard

“So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” (Rom. 10:17)

Faith isn’t self-generated. It isn’t produced by emotion, inherited through family, or given through a personal experience alone. Scripture is clear, faith has a source, and it comes from hearing. 

Paul’s statement in Romans 10:17 is the conclusion of a powerful chain of reasoning. In the verses leading up to it, he asks, “How will people call on Him if they have not believed? How will they believe if they have not heard? How will they hear without a preacher? And how will they preach unless they are sent?”(Romans 10:14–15). Paul’s point is that salvation is tied to a message, and that message must be heard.

But not just any message, the word of Christ. The phrase “word of Christ” points to the revealed message about Jesus, His life, death, resurrection, and lordship. This isn’t some made up human philosophy; it is the authoritative, divine revelation of the gospel. Faith is born when that message is received! 

The word “hearing” here is more than sound entering the ear. It carries the idea of attentive, receptive listening. Many heard Jesus physically, yet few believed. Why? Because true hearing involves the heart (read Mark’s gospel). It is a willingness to receive, trust, and submit to what is heard.

This verse dismantles the idea that faith can exist apart from Scripture. If faith comes by hearing the word of Christ, then no one can have genuine, saving faith without exposure to that word. Feelings, traditions, and personal convictions aren’t enough. Faith must be anchored in revealed truth.

This should tell us the urgency of teaching and preaching. If faith depends on hearing the word, then withholding or neglecting that word leaves people without the very means by which faith is produced. Every sermon, every Bible class, every personal study carries eternal weight. We have the ability and responsibility to bring this message to the world. 

And it challenges us to ask, “what are we listening to? What is shaping our faith?” If our intake of God’s word is minimal, our faith will be weak. If our exposure is steady, deep, and sincere, our faith will grow.

God didn’t leave faith up to chance. He’s given a clear, powerful means for its formation, His word.

So if you want stronger faith, the answer isn’t mysterious. Listen. Open the Scriptures. Receive the word of Christ. Because that’s where faith begins, and where it grows!

Sorry, Chase (Part 5)!

Gary Pollard

This week’s article will be the last in the series. It seemed good to me to do one pillar a week for this series, but this one makes five articles. That’s a bit much for one video, and takes on the spirit of something I cannot stand: debunking. That’s not my intent with this series. As has hopefully been clear, my goal is not to debunk the video (The ancients decoded reality) in its entirety, but to correct the observations where Christianity is concerned, and the implication that Christianity is no better or worse than any other world religion. I’ve stated (ad nauseam) that the overall content is excellent, there is much to be gained from his observations. But without a sound framework, it would be very easy for a believer or seeker to conclude that Christianity is just one entree on the menu. We briefly looked at the problem of Christianity’s historical approach to the symbolism and esoterism in scripture, and the need for a framework that doesn’t merely reduce the symbolism to a prosaic or literalist or unidimensional interpretation. Today we will look at the remaining pillars in Mr. Hughes’ video. 

The third universal observation is: Your mind is not a camera, it is a projector. To support this, he cites many of the same ancient texts. 

  1. What you think, you become (Dhammapada) 
  2. The all is mind (Hermetic texts)
  3. The world you perceive is shaped by the mind’s illusions (Hindu Vedanta) 
  4. The universe arises from consciousness (Upanishads)
  5. Reality is the moving image of eternity (Plato)

He looks to quantum physics, relying on the assumptions we’ve made concerning this poorly-understood field. He notes that observation changes the behavior of physical particles. The essence of his argument is that “two people can look at the exact same moment and come away with something different.” And, “We think they’re interpretations, but what they are is filters that reshape reality before reality reaches you.” He has some good observations here — “…the moment we stop letting fear hijack the projector, we start seeing reality pretty clearly for the first time.” His point being that fear robs us of our peace and willingness to surrender control. The problem is that there’s not really any way to confirm or deny this one, so it must be placed in the category of speculation. In my personal opinion, evidence seems to point to consciousness as being non-local. God gives each person the level of consciousness he deems appropriate, that consciousness returns to him at death, and will be “installed” in whatever kind of body we’ll enjoy at the resurrection. But this is difficult to definitively prove, and I defer again to John: Loved ones, we are children of God now, but what we will be has not yet been made clear to us. We know that when he is revealed we will be just like him, and that we will see him just as he is now. Even the inspired writers didn’t exactly understand the nature of the new body, only that our new bodies would necessarily have expanded consciousness. We cannot see him now, but we will see him when he is revealed to the world. 

The fourth observation is one we will partially disagree with: The enemy is not the world, the enemy is the ego. He says, “The only real enemy is the ego. Not demons, not bad luck, not other people, not the world.” This conclusion is a false dichotomy, and does not require much refutation for most Christians. “Friendship with the world is enmity towards God.” “Our fight is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers and powers of darkness.” To support one aspect of his point, though, we can point to James. He says that our tendency to sin comes from within ourselves — we fall prey to our own desires and become trapped in sin. So yes, our ego is an enemy, but not to the exclusion of the world and its influence or the unseen powers and their influences. The rest of his point is a discussion of the ego and its role in the psychological and social pathologies we deal with, and seems to be helpful overall.

The fifth and final observation: Everything is connected. “We see this in ancient temples and modern physics laboratories. Everything’s connected, everything’s one system, everything influences everything, that’s how everything it gets.” 

He points to the famous observation from the Hermetic texts, “As above, so below.” The Kabbalah, “All creation emerges from a single tree of life.” Again, quantum physics, “No particle is truly separate, every particle has some entanglement,” and many others. His point seems to be summarized by the following: “Nothing stands alone, so every action ripples, every emotion radiates, every intention vibrates through the whole. You are not some separate node in the universe, you’re a node in the cosmic brain firing inside of infinity. And your life is not happening to you, it is happening with you, through you, and as you.” 

The only aspect of this that we can confidently correct is the phrase, “You are not some separate node in the universe…” Scripture does teach that all things (and all consciousness) come from one Source. But this point is incompatible with Christianity in that each person faces their own judgment. Since he points to the Egyptian Pyramid Texts, we must point out that they also believed in individual judgment. Yes, we all come from one source and exist within one framework sustained by one All-Father. But this does not diminish the individuality each person has — why else would murder be considered wrong? If we’re all just “nodes in a cosmic brain”, what makes individual life special if consciousness is not anchored to unique identities within individual bodies? I would also point out that “as above so below” and other similar sentiments have more to do with the fact that things happening in the heavens have their counterparts on the earth. This does not necessarily support his supposition. 

In summary, most of his observations and conclusions are excellent overall, and would be beneficial to implement for anyone looking self-improvement in this life. However, many of his conclusions where Christianity is concerned are flawed. If this is implemented as a self-improvement tool, excellent. But to be adopted as an overall worldview or system of religion (which is functionally what this becomes) is not something a Christian can do and still be called “Christian.”

Books and bookish items from the Pollards

Subscribe to Kathy’s “A Tiny Spark” snail mail club

When the Heart Cries “Real” but the Word Says “No”

Brent Pollard

A young man recently walked away from the church. He was troubled—genuinely so—convinced that demons from his past involvement with the occult were hounding him. He came seeking baptism, and we believe he hoped the gift of the Holy Spirit would arm him with miraculous power to fight what he feared. When Scripture did not tell him what he wished to hear, he turned to YouTube “prophets” who did. He found individuals who offered “deliverance prayers” and validated every feeling he carried. In the end, it did not matter what God’s word said, because it did not match what he felt.

His story grieves us. But it also instructs us, for it lays bare a danger that threatens every soul in every generation: the temptation to enthrone experience over revelation.

The Question of “That Which Is Perfect”

This young man, like many sincere believers, points to 1 Corinthians 13.10 and argues that “the perfect” refers to the second coming of Christ—meaning miraculous gifts continue until He returns. It is not a novel interpretation; many good-hearted people hold it. But the text itself resists it. Paul chose a neuter Greek word, rendered “that” in English. Had he meant the Lord Jesus, he would have used the masculine—”He.” The members of the Godhead are never called “that.” This is not a trivial grammatical point. It is the Holy Spirit’s own precision, and we tamper with it at our peril.

What, then, is “that which is perfect”? It is the completed, fully revealed word of God—the faith once for all delivered to the saints (Jude 3). When the last apostolic pen was laid down, revelation was finished, and the scaffolding of miraculous gifts, having served its glorious purpose, was taken away.

Witnesses from the Ancient Church

We do not stand alone in this conviction. The testimony of early Christian writers confirms what Scripture teaches. John Chrysostom, writing in the fourth century, observed plainly that the miraculous gifts Paul described had ceased. Those baptized in his day, he noted, no longer spoke in the tongues of all nations as believers had in the first century. Augustine of Hippo agreed, writing that such miracles “were no longer permitted to continue in our time,” lest they become commonplace and lose their power to produce faith. Cyril of Alexandria taught that the miraculous gift of languages at Pentecost was a temporary sign intended for the Jews—kept for life by those who first received it, but not passed beyond their generation.

These men were not skeptics. They were devoted servants of Christ who recognized what the New Testament itself describes: miraculous gifts were conferred exclusively through the laying on of the apostles’ hands (Acts 8.14–17), and an apostle had to meet the requirements of Acts 1.21–22. Since no one alive today meets those requirements, the chain of miraculous conferral has been broken—not by human failure, but by divine design.

We might also note a striking practical detail. Paul, who possessed the gift of healing, left his fellow minister Trophimus sick at Miletus (2 Timothy 4.20) and advised Timothy to treat his stomach ailments with a little wine rather than a miracle (1 Timothy 5.23). Even the apostle did not wield miraculous power as a tool of personal convenience. The gifts served God’s purposes, not man’s preferences.

What, Then, Are These Experiences?

If the miraculous gifts have ceased, what are we to make of the experiences people report? What of the young man who felt delivered? What of those who speak in ecstatic utterances and weep with the certainty that God has touched them?

We need not question their sincerity to question the source. The human mind is a remarkable instrument. When people pray or worship with deep intensity, the brain can enter a focused state in which the speech-filtering centers quiet down, allowing sounds and syllables to flow without conscious direction. It feels powerful precisely because it is unforced. But unforced is not the same as supernatural.

These experiences are also learned. In communities where speaking in tongues is practiced, people observe it, absorb its patterns, and are taught—directly or by imitation—how to interpret inner stirrings as the Spirit’s movement. Over time, the brain begins responding on cue. If everyone around you treats something as real, your mind learns to experience it accordingly.

Moreover, these moments often bring genuine emotional relief—a sense of belonging, closeness to God, even catharsis. A sudden thought becomes “God spoke to me.” A warm sensation becomes “the Spirit moved.” Ecstatic syllables become “tongues.” The brain, emotions, and social environment conspire together to produce something that feels deeply true. But feeling deeply true and being true are not the same thing.

Truth Is Not a Feeling

Here we must plant our feet on the bedrock of Scripture. Jesus Himself defined the matter with crystalline clarity: “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth” (John 17.17). Truth is not discovered through sensation. It is revealed through God’s word.

Scripture warns us repeatedly against trusting the heart’s verdict. Solomon writes, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death” (Proverbs 14.12). Jeremiah is blunter still: “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?” (Jeremiah 17.9). Sincerity, however passionate, does not guarantee truth. A man may be sincerely wrong, and his sincerity will not cushion the consequences.

Test Everything

God has never asked us to accept spiritual experiences without scrutiny. John commands, “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God” (1 John 4.1). Paul echoes, “Test everything; hold fast what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5.21). The question is never merely “Did something happen?” but always “Does this align with what God has revealed?”

Consider what biblical tongues actually were. At Pentecost, the apostles spoke recognizable human languages. Listeners understood them in their native tongues. The purpose was communication—the delivery of God’s message to real people in real words. That bears no resemblance to unintelligible sounds requiring no translation, only the interpretation of feelings.

And let us remember: God is not the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14.33). Even when miraculous gifts operated in the first century, they were orderly, controlled, and intelligible. If an experience bypasses understanding entirely, that alone should give us pause.

The Spirit and the Word Are Never at Odds

The Holy Spirit does not operate independently from the word He revealed (John 16.13). He will not contradict what He has already spoken. If an experience cannot be verified by Scripture, it must not be attributed to the Spirit, no matter how vivid, how comforting, or how tearfully sincere the one who claims it.

God never asks us to choose between truth and experience. If something is truly from Him, it will stand in perfect agreement with His word. Where the two appear to conflict, it is not the word that must yield.

Let us, then, be a people who love truth more than feeling, who treasure revelation above sensation, and who test all things—not because we lack faith, but because we possess it. For the God who gave us His word did not give it so we might set it aside when something more exciting comes along. He gave it because it was enough. It has always been enough. And by His grace, it will carry us all the way home.

Part Two: The Fortress and the River – God Our Satisfaction

Brent Pollard

In our earlier reflection on Psalm 46, we faced a challenging truth: the mountains will quiver, the oceans will roar, and the earth’s very foundations will shake. Nonetheless, amid this universal turmoil, God stays our steadfast refuge. We learned that He comes close during storms rather than in moments of peace, and that what we need most isn’t answers but His presence.

But God provides more than just survival; He not only shelters us from the storm but also sustains us through it. The psalm’s imagery transitions from chaotic turbulence to peaceful abundance, highlighting a deep truth about God’s presence with His people.

The River That Satisfies: God’s Presence as Our True Resource

“There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the Most High. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved.”

The imagery transitions from chaos to serenity, moving from turbulent seas to a peaceful river. This creates a beautiful paradox in the psalm because Jerusalem, unlike Babylon or Egypt, lacked a natural river. Water was scarce, precious, and meticulously collected from cisterns and springs. In Hezekiah’s time, an ingenious tunnel channeled water from the Gihon Spring into the city, serving as a crucial lifeline during the siege.

Yet the psalmist mentions a river that brings joy to the city. It’s not just safe—it’s joyful. Not just protected—but filled with happiness. This is more than simple water. It represents God’s life-giving presence.

As suggested, God is most glorified in us when we find our greatest satisfaction in Him. The river in Psalm 46 symbolizes delight, not utility. Though enemy nations rage like floodwaters threatening to overwhelm, God resides among His people as a calm, sustaining stream of peace. He is both our source of satisfaction and our security.

Jesus later identified Himself as the source of this river: “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water” (John 7.37-38). The promise isn’t that life will be trouble-free, but that God offers sustenance beyond circumstances during difficult times.

This assurance is highly practical. God’s presence isn’t just an abstract theological idea; it changes how we approach Monday mornings. Knowing God is with us turns panic into peace. Recognizing that He is our source, we cease striving to create our own limited water sources, like cisterns that contain no water (Jeremiah 2.13).

However, Jerusalem’s security was never reliant on its religious infrastructure. The temple alone did not guarantee safety for a rebellious people. The city’s walls offered no protection if hearts were distant from God. It was repentance and prayer, not military tactics, that saved Jerusalem from Assyria’s formidable army. Hezekiah presented Sennacherib’s threatening letter before the Lord and called for deliverance, emphasizing God’s glory over Israel’s safety (2 Kings 19.14-19).

And God responded. At dawn, 185,000 Assyrian soldiers were dead, slain by the Lord’s angel. The enemy retreated without a single arrow being fired from Jerusalem’s defenses. God simply declared, and kingdoms fell.

The Call to Stillness: Surrender as the Path to Strength

“Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”

This passage is among Scripture’s most quoted—and often misunderstood—verses. We tend to see it as a calming meditation or a spiritual breath of relief. However, in its original context, it carries a much more challenging message.

The Hebrew phrase literally translates to: “Let go. Cease striving. Stop.” It serves as a divine directive to relinquish our need for control, abandon our frantic attempts to manage outcomes, and surrender the illusion of self-sufficiency.

Modern Christianity often portrays God as a helpful guide for our personal plans. We prefer His blessing on our initiatives instead of surrendering to His greater purposes. We tend to use God rather than worship Him. However, Psalm 46 dispels this arrogance. God will be exalted, regardless of our involvement. The real question is whether we will align with His divine plan or waste our energy resisting it.

“Be still” does not mean passive resignation. Instead, it signifies active trust—opting for dependence rather than independence, faith rather than fear, worship over worry. For fallen humanity, this is the hardest act because it demands that we admit we are not God.

Consider Hezekiah’s prayer again: “Now therefore, O Lord our God, save us from his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that You are the Lord God, even You only” (2 Kings 19.19, KJV). Notice the ultimate concern—not Israel’s comfort, but God’s glory. Not merely deliverance, but a demonstration of divine supremacy.

Remember that humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less. Being still means shifting our focus from our troubles to God’s nature, from our frailty to His strength, and from our fears to His unwavering faithfulness.

The psalm concludes by calling God “the God of Jacob,” which should fill us with great hope. Jacob was a cunning and manipulative man, often trying to control events through his own cleverness. Despite this, God stayed faithful to him, changed him, and made him a patriarch. We often act similarly—rushing ahead of God’s timing, trying to grasp what to trust, and strategizing instead of surrendering.

And yet—wonder of wonders—God remains our refuge.

Living in the Fortress

Psalm 46 does not guarantee that mountains won’t shake in our lives if we have enough faith. Instead, it reassures us that God stays unshaken when those shakes happen—and they will. He allows us to face difficult situations, not to harm us, but to show Himself more clearly and to strengthen our faith.

The world takes pride in its chariots, horses, stock portfolios, military strength, technological achievements, and political influence. However, Scripture teaches us that “some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the Lord our God” (Psalm 20.7). Ultimately, there will be a day when “the Lord alone shall be exalted” (Isaiah 2.11).

Until then, our lives exist between the “already” and the “not yet.” We feel God’s presence as both a fortress and a river—offering protection in times of danger and fulfillment in seasons of dryness. We recognize His strength even as we admit our weakness. Peace comes not from having control over circumstances but from knowing Who is truly in control.

When the earth shakes…  

When nations rage… 

When fear rises within us…

God remains our refuge.  

God remains our strength.  

God remains Immanuel—with us.

And because He is, we can—we must—be still.

In that stillness, we find what frantic activity can never achieve: the actual value of knowing God personally. It’s not just about learning about Him but experiencing Him intimately through dependence, feeling secure in His presence, and delighting in His flowing grace, even during the driest seasons of our lives.

This is not escapism; it is the most practical wisdom for humans. We were created for God, and our hearts stay restless until they find rest in Him.

The fortress remains, the river continues to flow, and God beckons us to come in.

Part One: The Fortress and the River – God Our Refuge

Brent Pollard

Throughout history, some moments feel like the barrier between heaven and earth is unusually thin. These instances cause the eternal to pierce through the temporary so powerfully that even centuries later, their impact is still felt. Psalm 46 is one such moment—born not from theological musings but from a time of national crisis. Martin Luther heard its profound message and responded with “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.” Long before the Reformation hymns echoed through European cathedrals, this psalm carried a people through their fear as Assyrian campfires threatened their city walls.

It’s important to remember that Scripture isn’t just a compilation of spiritual rules — it documents God’s interaction with real people in genuine desperation. The message God shared with ancient Jerusalem remains true today: our most profound human need isn’t for solutions, but for His presence.

When Mountains Crumble: The Problem of Cosmic Insecurity

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.”

Note that the psalm does not say, “We should not fear” or “We ought not fear.” Instead, it confidently states: “We will not fear.” This is not just hope; it’s a firm belief rooted in understanding who God is.

The psalmist depicts a scene of complete chaos. Mountains, symbols of stability, melt away like sandcastles at the tide. The seas angrily roar and foam. The very foundations of creation tremble. These vivid images are not just poetic devices; they symbolize natural disasters and political turmoil. In biblical symbolism, raging waters frequently represent hostile nations in chaos (Daniel 7.2-3; Revelation 17.15).

Here’s the uncomfortable truth: our world was never meant to be our final refuge. Because our desires can’t be fully satisfied here, it suggests we were created for another world. We long for stability in a creation that is inherently unstable. We pursue security in systems designed to dissolve. In His mercy, God permits the mountains to shake, guiding us to discover what cannot be shaken.

God draws near to us during storms rather than calm moments. Israel frequently learned this the hard way: in times of peace, they forgot the Lord and turned to idols. When trouble arose, they sought Egyptian alliances instead of divine assistance (Isaiah 30.1-2). They sought rescue and deliverance without a relationship or devotion.

But here is the marvel: God is depicted as an ever-present help—never hesitant, never distant, nor waiting for us to do enough religious acts to gain His notice. He is already present—our refuge, fortress, and shield. The real question is never His availability but our readiness to trust.

We have seen that God engages with us during storms rather than waiting for calm. We’ve recognized that our world was never intended as our ultimate refuge, and that the upheaval of mountains has a compassionate purpose—guiding us toward eternal stability. However, understanding that God is our refuge prompts another question: what does His presence truly offer? Is He only a fortress shielding us from harm, or does He provide something more?

The psalmist’s answer shifts us from merely surviving to finding satisfaction, from simple protection to deep joy. In our next reflection, we’ll see that God’s presence isn’t just about safety—it’s about our greatest delight.

IRONY IN JOB

Dale Pollard

In Job you find all kinds of interesting things like references to the earth’s rotation (Job 38.14), ocean floor vents (38.16), and even the movement of star clusters like the Pleiades (38.31).

But, there are a couple of powerful verses that also include a heavy dose of irony.

“Oh, that my words were recorded, that they were written on a scroll, that they were inscribed with an iron tool on lead, or engraved in rock forever!”

Job 19.23-24

A moment in the middle of Job’s pain and agony he seems to cry out those words, but they’re buried under many other laments and arguments concerning his terrible situation. The reader, though, already knows all of this because later in life Job wrote down his pain, questions, and his defense– on a scroll and engraved them forever. Just like he wanted!

Well, he desired to be remembered accurately. Job isn’t just venting. He wants future readers to know that his suffering was real and that his struggle with God came from a good place of honesty, not rebellion. An eternal scroll was proof that his story mattered to God, but also a reminder that God could in fact hear every word at a time when he felt like God couldn’t.

At the same time, this moment shows Job’s faith wrestling out in the open for all of us to benefit from. He believed that truth ultimately matters, even if it is not recognized right away. Ironically, Job’s wish is fulfilled. His words are preserved and read thousands of years later. What felt like a desperate plea is turned into his story of suffering before God that wasn’t wasted. God hears it all and answers every cry of confusion, and He can turn it into a lasting story of faith.

Look Deeper

Neal Pollard

While ancient writers like Origen have been rightly criticized for their overcommitment to an allegorical interpretation of Scripture (every book, often every verse, person and event, being interpreted as having a hidden, deeper, and moral meaning), the Bible is rightly known as “the deep things of God” (1 Cor. 2:10). One of the major synonyms of the gospel in the New Testament is “the mystery” (Rom. 16:25; Eph. 3:3-5; Col. 1:26; etc.). Jesus often couched His teaching in parables, “And He was saying to [the apostles], “To you has been given the mystery of the kingdom of God, but those who are outside get everything in parables, so that while seeing, they may see and not perceive, and while hearing, they may hear and not understand, otherwise they might return and be forgiven” (Mark 4:11-12). In many ways, Scripture teaches that while truth is so often easy and knowable (John 8:32), there are “some things hard to be understood” (2 Pet. 3:16).

One of the major impediments to our comprehension is us! If we are truly interested in knowing something, most of us have the mental capacity and faculties to learn it. Without that incentive, however, we often see without perceiving and hear without understanding. At times, we can let prejudices and preconceptions serve as barriers between ourselves and accepting Bible truths. Paul addresses some like this in 2 Corinthians. They apparently believed in the Old Testament but they could not see Christ in it. Paul describes them in this way, that “their minds were hardened” (3:14) and “a veil lies over their heart” (3:15). While Paul is illustrating this truth by referring to the time Moses came down from Sinai with the tablets of stone, it applies to more than those who could not see Christ in the Old Testament (3:15). 

Paul says, “And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, in whose case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving so that they might not see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God” (4:3-4). He reveals the condition of those who refuse to seek God’s will in His Word: “perishing.” He reveals the cause of their resistance: “the god of this world.” He reveals the consequences of their resistance: “unbelieving.” He reveals the cost of their resistance: “not see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ.” 

The Bible is an understandable book, but we must apply ourselves. We must not only read, but meditate (Ps. 1:2; 119:97), search (John 5:39; 1 Pet. 1:10), pursue (1 Tim. 6:11), seek and search (Pr. 2:4), be diligent (2 Tim. 2:15), incline our hearts (1 Ki. 8:58), and really be ready to do whatever it takes to grasp the message of Scripture. So often, it is not that the Bible is conceptually difficult. Instead, we discern a cost or a call for change. That’s when it becomes difficult to open our hearts and submit ourselves to divine truth. But, if we will be the blessed person David describes in Psalm one or the person Paul describes as turning to the Lord and being transformed, we must commit to always looking deeper to know what God would have us to do. Be encouraged! “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. ‘For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened'” (Mat. 7:7-8). 

IF YOU DON’T THINK IT’S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR 

Dale Pollard

Scripture never pretends that sadness or despair are imaginary. Instead, it addresses the moments when the heart feels worn down, lonely, or overwhelmed. In fact, it’s a pretty common theme in the Bible. Here are just three verses/sections in particular that show how the Bible approaches sorrow—not with denial, but with honesty. Most importantly, it provides us with unmatched hope. 

Psalm 42:11 — “Why are you cast down, O my soul?”

The psalmist questions his own despair in a public way: “Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God.” This verse hits hard in a personal way because it shows someone talking to his own heart. Sadness should be acknowledged, not tucked away or buried as if to fool ourselves and others that it doesn’t exist. Maybe some need the reminder that with God, depression doesn’t get the final word. The psalmist reminds himself that feelings can lie, and that hope must sometimes be chosen before it is felt.

1 Kings 19:4–8 — Elijah’s exhaustion, not condemnation

After a great spiritual victory, Elijah collapses into despair and asks to die. God’s response is not a lecture—but rest, food, and care. Before addressing Elijah’s fears, God tends to his physical and emotional exhaustion. This passage reminds us that depression is sometimes tied to fatigue, fear, or isolation. God meets people where they are, not where they think they should be. 

Matthew 11:28 — “Come to Me… and I will give you rest”

Jesus is talking directly to the worn-down and tuckered out crowd: 

“Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” 

Notice how Jesus doesn’t demand strength first? He invites the weary as they are. This verse sort of reframes how some may think of healing—not self-repair, but coming to Someone who carries what we can’t.

Together, these verses show a consistent truth— sadness is not a spiritual failure. 

The Bible gives permission to be honest, rest easy, and place our hope somewhere stronger than on the shoulders of our own emotions. Depression may darken the moment, but Scripture (constantly) insists that it does not define the ending.

Jesus, The Bread Of Life: Satisfying Your Deepest Hunger

A 2023 Barna study found 74% of Americans feel a “spiritual hunger” for meaning, yet only 20% believe they’ve found it. We chase promotions, relationships, or social media likes, but the void persists. Why?

Carl Pollard

What are you hungry for? And I don’t mean what you’re grabbing from Subway for lunch, but that craving deep in your heart. Is it success? Love? Security? Purpose? We live in a world that promises to fill us up but leaves us starving. A 2023 Barna study found 74% of Americans feel a “spiritual hunger” for meaning, yet only 20% believe they’ve found it. We chase promotions, relationships, or social media likes, but the void persists. Why? Because our souls weren’t made for temporary fixes—they were made for Jesus, who declares in John 6:35, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.”

John 6 is a turning point in Jesus’ ministry. It kicks off with Him feeding 5,000 people with five loaves and two fish (vv. 1-14). The crowd’s amazed, ready to crown Him king (v. 15). But the next day, they chase Him across the Sea of Galilee, not for His teaching, but for more bread (v. 26). Jesus sees through their motives and points to a deeper truth. In the Old Testament, God sent manna to sustain Israel in the wilderness (Exodus 16:4-15), but it couldn’t save their souls. Now, Jesus stands as the true bread from heaven, sent to satisfy not just bodies but souls for eternity.

Jesus is the Bread that Satisfies (John 6:35). When He says, “I am the bread of life,” He’s claiming to be God Himself, echoing God’s name to Moses (Exodus 3:14). Bread was life in the ancient world—sustenance you couldn’t survive without. Jesus says, “That’s Me for your soul.” His promise is wonderful: come to Him, believe in Him, and your hunger and thirst are gone forever. Think of the Samaritan woman in John 4, chasing love in all the wrong places. Jesus offered her “living water,” and now He offers us “living bread.” What are you chasing? Success that fades? Approval that doesn’t last? Jesus says, “Stop chasing what can’t satisfy.” 

Jesus is the Bread that Surpasses (John 6:48-50). The manna fed Israel, but they still died—physically and, for many, spiritually (Numbers 14:29-30). Jesus is greater. “This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that one may eat of it and not die.” The crowd wanted another miracle, another meal (v. 30-31), treating Jesus like a means to an end. We do this too, praying, “Fix my finances, heal my body,” while missing the real gift—Jesus Himself. King Solomon had it all—wealth, wisdom, power—yet called it “vanity” (Ecclesiastes 1:2). Why? He chased temporary bread. Jesus surpasses every counterfeit, offering life that never fades.

Jesus is the Bread that Saves (John 6:51). He says, “The bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.” This points to His death on the cross, where He gave His body for our sins. To “eat” this bread is to trust in His sacrifice, believing His death and resurrection secure your eternity. Many walked away, unable to accept this (v. 66), but Peter got it: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” (v. 68). Jesus isn’t just sustenance; He’s salvation.

So, how do we live this out? Feed on Jesus daily through Scripture and prayer—start with John 6 this week. Let go of temporary bread—write down what you’re chasing and pray for God’s will in your life. Share the Bread with a starving world—point a friend, coworker, or neighbor to Jesus. He sees your hunger and says, “I am the bread of life. Come to Me. Believe in Me.” If you’re a Christian, stop chasing crumbs and feast on the Bread that never runs out.

Part 2: Moral Clarity in an Age of Antiheroes (continued)

Today’s society has adopted what the prophet decried: a deliberate shift in moral values. Our entertainment industry, educational institutions, and even certain religious circles increasingly emphasize personal comfort instead of moral integrity and individual authenticity, rather than divine guidance.

Brent Pollard

The Prophetic Warning Against Moral Relativism

In Isaiah 5.20, the warning critiques ancient Israel, denouncing any culture that forsakes divine moral truths. The Hebrew term hoy, meaning “woe,” indicates not just mild concern but a declaration of divine condemnation for those who knowingly distort the moral standards established by God.

Recognizing this context underscores Isaiah’s significance in contemporary entertainment and politics. Similar to how the Judeans rationalized their departure from God’s laws, our society creates complex narratives that validate ethical compromises. The reasoning that caused them to modify their moral standards now encourages us to admire fictional characters who engage in theft, deception, criminal partnerships, or political movements that justify violence as a form of justice.

Today’s society has adopted what the prophet decried: a deliberate shift in moral values. Our entertainment industry, educational institutions, and even certain religious circles increasingly emphasize personal comfort instead of moral integrity and individual authenticity, rather than divine guidance.

The Scripture’s Unwavering Standard

The New Testament reinforces Isaiah’s message. Romans 1.32 warns that those who practice sin “also give hearty approval to those who practice them.” 1 John 3.4 adds, “Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness.” The Greek anomia indicates a deep rejection of divine authority.

When society praises those who defy moral law, it fosters chaos and rebellion. No matter how admirable their intentions may seem, God condemns their deeds.

The Antihero Deception: A Pattern Throughout History

Individuals who defy societal norms for “noble” causes have been lauded throughout history—from Robin Hood and Batman to contemporary antiheroes like Disney’s Ironheart. She constructs her suit using stolen technology and collaborates with criminal organizations to achieve her objectives. Additionally, her character is portrayed as bisexual, a choice that mirrors the cultural agenda.

This highlights a more profound concern: the notion that good intentions can excuse immoral behavior. However, Scripture disagrees. Theft is still considered stealing (Exodus 20.15). Violence is inherently wrong (Matthew 26.52). Corrupt partnerships taint ethical values (1 Corinthians 15.33).

We must not confuse love with chaos. God’s law is rooted in love, and genuine compassion does not justify sin.

The Dangers of Celebrating Moral Compromise

Societies that glorify morally ambiguous figures participate in cultural catechism. This teaching influences hearts and minds with significant repercussions:

  • Moral Absolutes Decay: Entertainment or activism that makes exceptions to God’s commands undermines the concept of absolute truth.
  • Pragmatism Replaces Principle: Compliance is no longer mandatory when outcomes justify actions.
  • Resistance to Authority: Antiheroes frequently succeed by challenging authority, prompting viewers to scrutinize all types of it, including divine authority (Romans 1:18ff).

Scripture provides counterexamples. David refused to kill Saul, even when he could have justified it, since Saul sought to kill him (1 Samuel 24.6). Jesus rebuked Peter for drawing a sword in His defense (Matthew 26.52).

The Authority of Scripture vs. Cultural Trends

We must maintain the authority of the Bible (2 Timothy 3.16-17). This obligation stems from principle rather than tradition. We evaluate cultural trends through Scripture, rather than assessing Scripture against cultural norms.

Peter warned that mockers would pursue their desires (2 Peter 3.3). Likewise, Paul cautioned Timothy about individuals who would turn away from sound doctrine in favor of what satisfies them (2 Timothy 4.2–3).

Teaching Moral Discernment

Christian parents should instruct their children to evaluate media from a biblical perspective. Consider:

  • Is this character committed to following God’s commands regardless of the circumstances?
  • Are sinful acts being celebrated?
  • What if everyone followed this character’s moral logic?

Modeling Consistent Ethics

Children gain the most insights from their parents’ examples. If we justify our minor faults while criticizing similar behaviors in others, we convey that moral standards can be adjusted.

James 1.22 urges us to be doers of the word. That includes how we consume entertainment and participate in politics.

Providing Positive Alternatives

Don’t just say what’s wrong; point to what’s right. Scripture presents heroes who remained faithful under pressure:

  • Daniel in the lion’s den (Daniel 6)
  • Joseph, tempted yet faithful (Genesis 39)
  • Hebrew midwives, who feared God more than Pharaoh (Exodus 1.17)

These individuals suggest that following righteousness may require sacrifices, which is always rewarding.

The Church’s Role

The church must be a prophetic voice. Like Isaiah, we declare “woe” to moral confusion from a place of spiritual integrity, not political power.

Early Christians transformed Rome not through political activism but by living the Gospel (Acts 17.6). So must we.

Conclusion: Holding Fast to Truth

Paul’s charge remains: “Guard… the treasure which has been entrusted to you” (2 Timothy 1.14).

We should not adjust the Bible to fit contemporary views. Instead, we present the truth with love, even if it’s not well-received.

By upholding moral integrity in our heroes, we instill in the next generation the importance of righteousness. Though this narrow path is challenging, it ultimately leads to eternal life (Matthew 7.14).

Selective Skepticism

Could it be that mankind is disturbed by the thought of accountability and submission? Would we rather have our fancy tickled by clairvoyance, black magic, and Martians than have it all explained by special revelation brought about by an Uncaused Cause who not only set things in motion but takes an active role and shows active concern in our individual lives even today?

Neal Pollard

“You don’t think the Bible is historically accurate, do you?”  “Moses didn’t cross the Red Sea.  It was the Reed Sea, only a couple of inches deep.”  “Jesus was a good man, but the Son of God, born of a virgin, resurrected from the dead?  Come on!”  “I just can’t buy that Moses wrote the first five books of the Old Testament.”  “Creation took place in six, literal, 24 hours day? Who believes that?!”  These are some typical questions people ask, and increasingly they are being asked by professed Christians as well as agnostics and atheists.  The concept of a truly limitless God doing the incredible in the unfolding of history and His plan of salvation troubles many.

But, there seems to be an inconsistency if not a contradiction with many of these doubters.  They will claim that they, their family or their friends have had many encounters with the paranormal.  They have seen ghosts or UFOs.  They have “communicated” with “the dead” with Ouija boards or séances.  They go to Palm Readers, read Tarot Cards and tea leaves, or religiously scour their horoscopes to get a bearing on how to plan their future.  They put complete trust in psychics and spiritualism.   They are willing to swallow every “fact” spouted by humanistic, evolutionary scientists.  In fact, a good number of things are simply assumed to be true because of the sources themselves.

Why do these glaring inconsistencies exist?  Because some of this deals with the heart and motives, one must be careful in assessing the “whys.”  However, it is manifest that such a reality prevails.   The Bible talks about the mindset that leads one to put faith in the fanciful all while rejecting the reasonable explanation of God and His ways found in scripture.  Certainly, we can treat the claims of scripture as fairly as we can a crystal ball or a Himalayan guru.

The pagan mind of the average Roman citizen was susceptible to the mystical and the cultic.  Paul writes, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.  For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened.  Professing to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the incorruptible God for an image in the form of corruptible man and of birds and four-footed animals and crawling creatures” (Romans 1:18-23).  Ironically, with that worldview as a foundation, immorality of the grossest varieties followed (Romans 1:24-28) as well as unrestrained, chaotic behavior that was violent and destructive (Romans 1:29-31).  Tucked into the middle of this latter list was the fact that such were “haters of God” (30).  Could this be a viable factor?  People might not articulate their personal philosophy in such pungent terms, but what is the consequence of their belief system?  They reject out of hand the idea of the incarnation (literally, “God in the flesh”), a vicarious death (an innocent one dying for the guilty), an objective, normative, and authoritative divine revelation (i.e., that the Bible came from God’s work in guiding men to write down His will to guide all people of all time), and such Bible themes as sin, repentance, redemption, a universal judgment, heaven, and hell.  

Could it be that mankind is disturbed by the thought of accountability and submission?  Would we rather have our fancy tickled by clairvoyance, black magic, and Martians than have it all explained by special revelation brought about by an Uncaused Cause who not only set things in motion but takes an active role and shows active concern in our individual lives even today?  I cannot speak for what drives a person to choose the ethereal over the eternal, but I can counter the fanciful with some basic facts of faith.  Our morality, our spirituality, our drive to have standards of right and wrong, and our yearning to adore and worship cannot be satisfactorily explained by evolution, synapses of the brain, or even inexplicable chance.   In our desire to titillate ourselves with apparitions and interpreting space noise, we have aimed infinitely low.  If we will look up and put our trust in the all-powerful, perfect God and live our lives from that perspective, we unlock for ourselves the portal to peace and the pathway to purpose.  In our heart of hearts, we know that belief in God is the better explanation.  To that end, may we follow our hearts!

Words To Live By

“What words do you live by?” That is the question, isn’t it? Everybody lives by some credo or philosophy. Dale shares some unbeatable wisdom from a perfectly impeccable source.

Dale Pollard

“When in doubt at least try to look intelligent.” 

“If you can’t be kind then be vague.”

I came across those two quotes after searching for examples of “words to live by.” Those are okay, but Solomon does a little better. Here are some words from the Word you can live by— taken from Ecclesiastes 12.9-14. 

GOD’S WORD IS WORTH THE EFFORT  

“Not only was the Teacher wise, but he also imparted knowledge to the people. He pondered and searched out and set in order many proverbs.”

Literal meaning of… 

Pondered: weighed 

Searched out: investigated 

Set in order: made a straight path 

LIVE BY GOD’S WORD & SHARE IT CAREFULLY  

“The Teacher searched to find just the right words, and what he wrote was upright and true.”

GOD’S WORD WAS DESIGNED WITH DIRECTION IN MIND 

“The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails—given by one shepherd.”

GOD’S WORD ARE THE ONLY WORDS YOU NEED TO LIVE BY 

(excuse the poor grammar) 

“My son, beware of anything beyond these. Of making many books there is no end, and much study is a weariness of the flesh.”

Don’t exhaust yourself looking for the answers you had the whole time. God made it simple and practical by compiling them into one handy collection. 

GOD’S WORD IS EVERYTHING FOR EVERYBODY 

“The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.”

LIVE IN VIEW OF GOD’S JUDGEMENT  

“For God will bring every deed into judgment, within every secret thing, whether good or evil.”

What words do you live by? 

Why Are They So Long?

Neal Pollard

Some profound events are captured in a relatively short amount of space in the Bible. The narrative of Jesus’ birth really takes up only seven verses in Matthew (1:18-25) and seven verses in Luke (2:1-7). The resurrection is not described at all, but mention of it is confined to a few verses in each of the four gospels. Even the establishment of the church, from the apostles being filled with the Spirit to the sermon, the response, and the events immediately thereafter in all of 47 verses.

Contrast that with some of the longest chapters in the Bible. There are at least two different ways to tally this distinction (number of verses and number of words). In number of words per chapter in descending order, the list is Psalm 119, 1 Kings 8, Deuteronomy 28, Numbers 7, Leviticus 13, Jeremiah 51, Ezekiel 16, Genesis 24, 1 Samuel 17, and Leviticus 14. In number of verses per chapter in descending order, the list is Psalm 119, Numbers 7, 1 Chronicles 6, Luke 1, Matthew 26, Nehemiah 7, Mark 14, Psalm 78, John 6, and Luke 22. 

We understand that modern chapter divisions were made by Stephen Langston early in the 13th Century, and the Ben Asher family divided the Hebrew Bible into verses around 900 AD and the modern division into verses was made by Robert Estienne in the 16th Century. Originally, Bible books were not divided into chapters and verses. That was added to aid in readability. Yet, it is the informed opinion of individuals with an excellent grasp of content and comprehension that the content in those chapters are of a fairly uniformed topic. 

There are some lessons to be learned from those long chapters, if we struggle with wondering why God devoted so much attention and information to matters that we find baffling. Let’s consider five lessons from the five longest chapters.

Lesson: GOD’S WORD IS VALUABLE, BENEFICIAL, AND MATCHLESSLY IMPORTANT (Psalm 119). In 22 stanzas (the same number of letters in the Hebrew alphabet), David tells us “from A to Z” why there’s no book like the Bible! The length and excess of the chapter, with its 176 verses, highlights this beautiful fact. How do I view God’s Word?

Lesson: WORSHIP IS IMPORTANT TO GOD (1 Kings 8). In 66 verses and over 2100 words, we have the dedication of the temple by Solomon. From Solomon’s prayer to the prolific amount of sacrifices, the grandeur and glory of God is on full display and in full view. How do I view the privilege of worship?

Lesson: OBEDIENCE AND DISOBEDIENCE HAVE CONSEQUENCES (Deuteronomy 28). In Deuteronomy 11:29, Moses identifies Mount Gerizim as the mount of blessing and Mount Ebal as the mount of cursing. Deuteronomy 28, continuing the ritual recorded in the previous chapter, is a list of blessings and curses depending on what people do with God’s Word. The sheer repetition of especially the curses reminds us that God’s Word cannot be trifled with. We forget or rebel against God, and it will cost us!

Lesson: LEADERS SET THE TONE IN GIVING AND SACRIFICE (Numbers 7). While the giving and sacrifice in this chapter is literal and material, we glean such an important principle even under the New Testament covenant. Elders, deacons, teachers, and preachers who call for others to be generous and sacrificial in time, talent, and treasure must go first and show the way! Leaders do not offer the Lord that which costs them nothing (2 Sam. 24:24).

Lesson: PURITY IS VITALLY IMPORTANT TO GOD (Leviticus 13). Moses gives an exhaustive set of tests to determine the presence of leprosy, giving a myriad of scenarios. But, as he refers to infectiousness, keeping uncleanness in check was indispensable. Often, leprosy symbolizes sin-sickness and the parallels abound. Leprosy required the involvement of a priest and so does sin. Leprosy comes from within, and so does sin. Leprosy affects the flesh, and so does sin. Leprosy is called uncleanness, and so is sin.

Sometimes we wonder why so much space is devoted to matters that we might find obscure or redundant. The deeper we dig and the more often we study, the greater our appreciation is for the truth Paul proclaims in 2 Timothy 3:16-17. It builds our confidence in the divine source of Scripture and the vast benefits we derive from studying and incorporating it into our lives.

That’s Your Interpretation

Neal Pollard

There are multiple Greek words used in the New Testament to talk about the process of explaining and interpreting God’s Word.

  • Mark 4:34 tells us Jesus was “explaining” His parables and other teachings to the disciples. This word means to loose or set free, to clarify and interpret.
  • Luke 24:27 is the first of six occurrences of a word translated “explained,” “translated,” and “interpreted” to speak of Jesus explaining to the disciples on the road to Emmaus how the Old Testament Scripture concerned Himself. The word refers to formal, extensive explanation of what is difficult to understand.
  • A trio of passages in Acts (11:4; 18:26; 28:23) refer to a word meaning to “expose” (a fourth use in Acts is used by Stephen to speak of Moses’ parents setting him outside, 7:21) or explain, manifest, declare, and expound. The latter three are all used in reference to a man taking God’s Word and explaining it to others.
  • 2 Peter 1:20 is the passage telling us that “no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation….” This word (“interpretation”) means to release or unravel, the act or process of explaining even what is difficult or complex.

We live in a world where even the religious decry any attempt to give an absolute meaning or interpretation of a verse or paragraph of the Bible. While great care and careful study should accompany any effort to understand what Scripture is saying, the passages above (and a great many others) prove that God intended for His Word to be interpreted. Yet, it is suggested that there was a right way for them to be understood. Definitive, binding conclusions could be drawn. All people could (and must) conform to the commands, teachings, and principles of those passages.

Truly, everyone who thoughtfully studies it interprets the Bible. Our challenge is to faithfully, honestly, and truly understand each passage in its context and ultimately harmonize it with the whole of Scripture. The Bible repeatedly speaks of Jesus and others taking the Old Testament, making interpretations and sharing them as authoritative truths to be obeyed.

Paul uses another word, unique to him, to tell Timothy to “handle accurately the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15). Other Scriptures speak of this “word of truth” as being intrinsically tied to bringing about our salvation (Eph. 1:13; Jas. 1:18). The word translated “handle accurately” means “to cut in a straight line; ἵνα ὀρθοτομῇ τὰς ὁδούς σου so that he gives you the right direction, so that he teaches you correctly, so that he gives you the right teaching” (Lust, Eynikel, and Hauspie, LEX LXX Lex., np). Leave it to a tentmaker to use such an analogy.

The New Testament is filled with passages teaching us about salvation, church organization, worship, gender roles, sexuality, morality, and much, much more. If these and other Scriptures can be cut straight, can’t they be cut crooked (cf. 2 Pet. 3:16)? If parables had a right interpretation, couldn’t they have wrong ones? If the Old Testament can be used to explain truth about Jesus, couldn’t they also be used to teach error about Him? The work of Peter, Aquila and Priscilla, and Paul in Acts, explaining to others, is implicitly endorsed as sound and proper. Doesn’t that mean that one could fail in such efforts by improper handling of Scripture? If holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit, the intention was for their words to be taken, processed, and utilized in a way that produced God’s pleasure and approval.

In a relativistic age, where knowledge, truth, and morality is said to not be absolute, authoritative, and binding, such passages are ignored or denied. Yet, there they stand, resolutely declaring that Scripture must be properly interpreted. The task for you and me is to humbly, prayerfully, and diligently read, meditate upon, study, then obey from the heart all that God commands in His Word. Is it important? Jesus thought so, asserting, “He who rejects Me and does not receive My sayings, has one who judges him; the word I spoke is what will judge him at the last day” (John 12:48; cf. John 14:26; 16:13). May “our interpretation” harmonize with the meaning He clearly intends and instructs through His inspired writers! Nothing else will suffice!

Booth Saved Lincoln?

So much is said and taken for granted without benefit of further study. That’s true of history, but even more true of the Bible.

Neal Pollard

The very title might offend some people, but it is the truth. Of course, context helps. It was Edwin Booth, not John Wilkes. And it was Robert, not Abraham, Lincoln. Edwin and Robert were among customers buying passage on a sleeping car in Jersey City, New Jersey. Lincoln lost his balance and fell into an open space between the train and the station platform. By all accounts, he would have been crushed and likely killed if Edwin had not “vigorously seized” and “quickly pulled up and out” onto the platform (Letters of Note: Volume 1: An Eclectic Collection of Correspondence Deserving of a Wider Audience. Chronicle Books. 2014. p. 282). 

Context can be very helpful. Without it, we can draw some erroneous and even fatal conclusions. This is especially true with the Bible, a book many may know a little about but neglect to study with depth and purpose. Doctrines and conclusions are based on statements taken out of context.

“Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved…” (Acts 16:31).

“The Lord hardened Pharaoh’s heart…” (Ex. 9:12; 10:20; 14:8; etc.).

“Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated…” (Mal. 1:2; Rom. 9:13).

“Whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved…” (Joel 2:32; Acts 2:21; Rom. 10:13). 

“Where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst” (Mat. 18:20). 

Sometimes, the content of a verse is explained and understood better just by reading the verses before and after it. That is the case is Acts 16:31 and Matthew 18:20. In Acts, the jailor is taught about Jesus and faith includes repentance and baptism (Acts 16:32-34). In Matthew, the subject is not worship but church discipline (18:15ff). 

Sometimes, a statement needs to be understood in light of the broader context. That would be the case regarding Pharaoh and Esau. The Lord hardened Pharaoh’s heart through the plagues, causing the Egyptian king to rebel against God’s will and choose pride over penitence. In the case of Esau, as Paul explains, the idea is of God’s sovereign choice. God was not unjust. He had a purpose for choosing Jacob over Esau (Rom. 9:11). 

Sometimes, a statement causes us to look deeper into all the Bible says about the subject. Consider the idea of calling on the name of the Lord to be saved. Rather than salvation by confession, the Bible teaches what is involved in calling on the name of the Lord. Ananias taught Saul that this is done when one is baptized, washing away sins (Acts 22:16).

When we are studying the Bible, we must always do so contextually. Whether that is the immediate context (the verses around a statement) or the broader context (everything the Bible says about it or further light shed on it elsewhere), it makes the difference in the conclusions we draw. God expects us to “handle accurately the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15)! May we be the best Bible students we can be. 

Good Quotes

New Testament writers quote frequently from the Old Testament. Especially Paul was even fond of quoting secular poets. It is interesting to see Jesus, The Word, quoting His Word.

Dale Pollard

I don’t remember creating a collection of “good quotes” but that was the header of a file on my computer I didn’t recognize. I opened it up to find exactly three quotes; all of which were made by my dad. I wasn’t surprised that they lived up to the rather boring but factual file name. 

Dad on the discipline he received growing up: 

“Mom used nothing bigger than a flip flop, dad used a rod of correction that was floppy.” 

On the key ingredient to sacrifice: 

“When we love God more than anything else, what will we not give Him?”

On the first reference of love in the Bible (Gen. 22.2):

 “The first time love is mentioned in the Bible it’s not a love of country, it’s not the love  of a spouse, but it’s of a father’s love— towards his son.”

Perfect Quotes

Jesus quotes from the Book of Psalms more than any other part of the Old Testament. It’s interesting to think that Jesus wasn’t really quoting, He was just repeating Himself. A quote is defined as (and I quote), “..a group of words from a text or speech with an indication that one is not the original author or speaker.” 

Everything Jesus says is worth quoting but anything Jesus says twice deserves our special attention. 

How Happy Are You?

Carl Pollard

Are you happy? On a daily basis, how do you usually feel? Anxious, tired, drained, sad, joyful? I was reading a report done on overall happiness and joy here in the US. The past four years it hit an all time low. Do you know what year Americans were happiest? Studies have shown that in 1957, people were by and large much happier than today and really at any point in US history. Why 1957? That year the average house at the time was a third of the size we live in today. The average salary was less than 4,000 a year. Life expectancy was 69 years. So why is it that even though homes were smaller, salaries were so modest, and life expectancy was 10 years shorter than today, people by and large much happier than today?

Maybe it’s because joy has never and will never be attached to physical possessions. We are losing our joy at an astounding rate. Even in the church, where we claim to have access to the peace of God and eternal life, joy can be far too elusive.

In Nehemiah 8:10, Nehemiah the Governor of Judah has just finished leading the Israelites in building the new wall around Jerusalem. They have returned from captivity and have what seems like a fresh start. One of the ways they show their gratitude was by gathering together to have Ezra read the books of Moses to them.

Nehemiah is doing some of the greatest work he could possibly choose to do. He used to be a cupbearer, but now he is leading the Israelites back to a relationship with God. After the reading of Scripture, notice what Nehemiah says, “Then he said to them, “Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

Why this reminder to the people? Because God’s people NEED joy! One of Satan’s first lines of attack to weaken our efforts in serving God is to take our joy. Psalm 16:11 reminds us where joy is found: “you will show me the path of life: in your presence is fulness of joy; at your right hand there are pleasures for evermore.”

I agree with the psalmist and I can confidently say joy is found in the presence of God! He has used His word, and time spent in prayer to give me encouragement and strength.

With Thanksgiving today, be especially thankful for the joy that comes from being a child of God!

Love For God

Carl Pollard

When Jesus was asked about the most important commandment of all, He quoted the Shema. In Hebrew, “Hear o Israel,” is “Sh’ma Yes’ra’eil.” This wasn’t anything new, but was an essential verse. It is the first a Jewish child will memorize. The question of the most important commandment had long been settled among God’s people, “Love the Lord God with all of your heart, soul, mind, and might.” And all of Israel knew that truth since God was clear on this to begin with. Knowing the truth was the easy part. Acting on it was another story. 

Jesus fulfilled this command perfectly. He loved God completely. He depended on God through prayer, knowing the Scriptures, and submitting to God’s will even at the cost of His life. What does it take to love God completely? In Mark 10:17-22, another man approached Jesus, desperately wanting to please God. He runs up, falls on his knees before Jesus, and asked, “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus answers with, “You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother.’”

The man said he had kept them all. Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” 

This man couldn’t do it. He left, overwhelmed with emotion. Turns out he was very rich. What was the problem? This man loved his wealth too much to give it all away, and until he was willing to make that sacrifice he could not have the one thing he lacked: Jesus. 

Once we realize who Jesus is and what He offers us, there is nothing we wouldn’t give to have Him. Jesus loved the “rich young ruler,” but the man who came to him couldn’t part with the things he loved. That’s exactly how it is today, a Savior who loves us, but we can’t seem to love Him enough to sacrifice. When people see this kind of sacrificial love for God, they never forget it. Those who love God with their entire being leave a legacy that isn’t quickly forgotten. 

There are many to this day we can all think of who left a powerful legacy because of their love for God. The Plague of Cyprian came along a couple centuries after the time of Jesus. One document says that in Rome, where a million people lived, as many as 5,000 died per day. This plague terrified people. It was so devastating that when the first symptoms appeared some villages simply emptied out, leaving the sick behind. There was no cure. There was no hope. So they left sick family members in their beds and ran for their lives. But Christians didn’t run. They stayed and brought water to the sick. They fed them. They changed their bandages. They loved and encouraged them. And they even got sick in the process.

There’s no telling how many people came to Christ because Christians served, and there’s no telling how many Christians lost their lives because they stayed behind. People were stunned at the love these Christians showed to the sick. This is why the Roman Empire changed so dramatically. 

They couldn’t ignore the actions of people who loved God so much that they would be willing to give up their lives. And in the same way, when we sacrifice on behalf of others, they will see our love. The church that sacrificially loves and cares for its community will discover that it holds more power than any person or group in power. 

There’s no single action that defines a person who loves God completely, but fulfilling the royal law will always speak volumes of our love for God.

Context Matters

Balancing Historical Meaning And Personal Application In Scripture

Brent Pollard

While exploring devotional content on Bible Gateway, I encountered an article by Kathie Lee Gifford discussing God’s various names. She references Isaiah 43.19, highlighting God’s promise of something new and encouraging readers to remember His continual blessings. Though uplifting, this perspective requires closer examination within its proper context. 

2 Peter 1.20–21 cautions against subjective interpretation of Scripture, emphasizing that prophecies did not originate from human will but from men inspired by the Holy Spirit. If not carefully applied, this method could lead to scriptures being used as mere motivational phrases, potentially distorting their original meaning. It’s crucial to exercise caution and be aware of this potential distortion, fostering a sense of vigilance and respect for the text.

A prime example is Jeremiah 29.11: “‘For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope'” (NASB95). Many people understand this verse as a personal assurance of immediate prosperity and well-being. However, it’s essential to consider its historical context during the Babylonian captivity. God encouraged the exiled Jews to persevere, assuring them of their eventual restoration to their homeland (Jeremiah 29.10–14).

Likewise, the “new thing” mentioned in Isaiah 43:19 alludes explicitly to Israel’s liberation from Babylonian captivity. God promises, “I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland,” echoing His guidance during the Exodus (Exodus 14.21–22). This prophecy highlights God’s steadfast dedication to restoring His people and revitalizing their covenant relationship, as in Isaiah 43.1–7 and 51.11.

While these passages have specific historical contexts, they also unveil broader theological truths relevant to our lives. Isaiah 43.19 showcases God’s power to bring transformation and hope, even in dire circumstances (2 Corinthians 5.17, Revelation 21.5). It reflects His sovereignty (Daniel 4.35) and His ongoing work in the world (John 5:17). This revelation enriches our understanding and enlightens us about the depth and richness of God’s Word.

When exploring Scripture, it’s crucial to balance understanding the context and applying broader meanings. This balanced approach reassures us that we grasp the depth of God’s Word and its relevance to our lives while respecting its original intent and avoiding misinterpretation. It instills confidence in our understanding and application of the Bible’s teachings, profoundly impacting our daily lives. 

Understanding the original context of verses like Jeremiah 29.11 and Isaiah 43.19 deepens our understanding of God’s Word and its intended message. This enriches our faith and prevents the distortion of Scripture into mere motivational quotes. Recognizing the historical and theological nuances allows us to see God’s grand narrative and ongoing work. As we apply these timeless truths to our lives, let’s do so with respect for their original intent, ensuring that our interpretations align with the divine wisdom imparted through the Holy Spirit. In doing so, we honor the full depth and richness of the Bible, allowing it to transform and guide us truly.

…

The Man Of God From Judah

Neal Pollard

THE OBEDIENT MAN OF GOD FROM JUDAH

To me, maybe the most fascinating and mysterious person of this entire time period is the focus of 1 Kings 13. His name is not revealed, but he is simply said to be “a man of God from Judah” (1). His story is utterly tragic and serves as a reminder of how important steadfast obedience to God is. Yet, the first part of his story, as disclosed in Scripture, reveals him to be one worthy of imitation. Consider the positive attributes of this “man of God.”

He was courageous. His commission was to prophesy against the altar of the powerful, first king of the northern kingdom—Jeroboam, the man whose wicked reign is shown in the previous chapter. Given what Jeroboam started and tried to do to him (4), he had to be a man of moxie and bravery. There are portions of God’s message that require readiness, all patience, and instruction (2 Tim. 4:2). The ability to tell the truth even at great personal cost is a mark of highest integrity.

He was faithful. Notice how the text conveys this. He came “by the word of the Lord” (1). He cried against the altar “by the word of the Lord” (2). His message was, “thus says the Lord” (2). He said, “This is the sign which the Lord has spoken” (3). Again, his message was “given by the word of the Lord” (5). He was true to his message as was commanded him by the word of the Lord (9). Thoroughly, from beginning to end in this high-pressure, delicate situation, this prophet was faithful to God’s Word. No greater tribute could be paid any follower of God. 

He was compassionate. Though Jeroboam was going to have his men seize him, this man of God showed the king mercy when God afflicted him. The king pleaded, “Please entreat the Lord your God, and pray for me, that my hand may be restored to me.” So the man of God entreated the Lord, and the king’s hand was restored to him, and it became as it was before (6). Jeroboam’s generosity after this act shows that the prophet did not have to do this, and a lesser man would not have. What a great combination to find someone who boldly shares God’s Word but does so with gentleness and kindness (2 Tim. 2:24-26). 

He was steadfast. Apparently, before the man of God made his journey to Bethel, God told him not to delay even to eat or drink there (9). No less than the king of Israel offered to reward him, feed him, and give him drink, but he would not do it. Verse ten says he went home another way, true to the completion of this daunting mission. What an example!

All these admirable traits make what happens next unbelievable! But, this snapshot of the man of God provides an example worthy of imitation as we are going in this world. The world needs Christians who are courageous, faithful, compassionate, and steadfast. They don’t expect it, and even if they oppose the word we share we can know that God is most pleased with such attributes! 

THE DISOBEDIENT MAN OF GOD FROM JUDAH

After his great moral victory in addressing wicked Jeroboam, the man of God from Judah teaches us a different, tragic lesson. Despite his faithfulness in that earlier mission, this prophet allowed himself to be deceived into disobeying God’s Word. In a strange incident, an old prophet whose motives are not revealed persuades him to go against God’s instructions. The result was, literally, deadly. 

An old prophet living in Bethel hears about how the man of God had handled himself with the wicked king of Israel. He appears to want to just spend time with the valiant prophet, but he inexplicably lies to him. When he offers his hospitality to the man of God, the unnamed man repeats his solemn charge. He tells the old prophet, “I cannot return with you, nor go with you, nor will I eat bread or drink water with you in this place” (16). He again cites the Lord’s command and word (17), but he allows himself to be duped. The old prophet persuaded him, saying, “I also am a prophet like you, and an angel spoke to me by the word of the Lord, saying, ‘Bring him back with you to your house, that he may eat bread and drink water.’ ” But he lied to him (18). The man of God goes with him. Then, God actually does speak to the old man and tells him the fate of the man of God from Judah. He would die for his disobedience. On his way home, a lion mauls him to death. The old prophet mourns him and buries him, bearing the guilt of the man of God’s death. What can we learn from this?

Always take God’s Word over man’s word. God had directly told him his mission and responsibility. Without further revelation from Him, the man of God had no business taking anyone else’s word over what he already knew. No matter how persuasive or reasonable man’s word sounds, reject it if it contradicts God’s.

It’s easy to claim divine guidance. How often do people try to change God’s Word by saying God led them to new truth? Sometimes, church leadership has changed course and positions on biblical matters regarding worship, salvation, gender roles, etc., claiming the Spirit is moving among them and leading them to the changes. Some claim to hear the voice of God, disclosing new truth. Under the law of Moses, there was this warning: “When a prophet speaks in the name of the Lord, if the thing does not come about or come true, that is the thing which the Lord has not spoken. The prophet has spoken it presumptuously; you shall not be afraid of him” (Deut. 18:22). Under Christ, there is this principle: “I am amazed that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you by the grace of Christ, for a different gospel; which is really not another; only there are some who are disturbing you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, he is to be accursed!” (Gal. 1:6-8). The bottom line is that any claim at odds with God’s revealed Word must always be rejected, no matter what. 

Obedience is serious to God. There can be no doubt of that from this account. God says what He means and means what He says. We violate His Word to our own peril. The disobedient man of God learned that in graphic terms.

The man of God’s disobedience did not nullify God’s Word or His purpose. The old prophet understood this, in the aftermath of the man of God’s death. What he prophesied “shall surely come to pass” (32). Jeroboam persisted in evil and disobedience, and it would end his dynasty and set up a legacy Israel would never recover from. What the man of God foretold would happen (1 Ki. 14:10; 15:29-30; 2 Ki. 17:21). Both the man of God’s death and His judgment against Jeroboam proves a changeless truth, that “the testimony of the LORD is sure” (Psa. 19:7; 2 Pet. 1:21).