Tag: truth

Almost Too Good To Be True!

How often we hear that the gospel, defined, is “good news.” It is God’s good news, meant to be shared. That’s exactly what the women and the two disciples are doing with the larger group of disciples when Jesus makes His final appearance before returning to heaven. But there are a few things He wants to impress upon them before He goes

Neal Pollard

How often we hear that the gospel, defined, is “good news.” It is God’s good news, meant to be shared. That’s exactly what the women and the two disciples are doing with the larger group of disciples when Jesus makes His final appearance before returning to heaven. But there are a few things He wants to impress upon them before He goes. Notice how the book of Luke ends (24:36-53).

There is a reminder of His identity (36-43). The predominant reminder in this last appearance is of His humanity, the identity He took on to save us from our sins. He shows them His hands and feet (40) and then eats a meal before them (41-43). He will appeal to His Deity in His final instructions, referencing His Father in heaven (49), but He did not want them to forget the brotherhood He shared with them all. How often do I benefit by remembering, as I go about as His disciple, that Jesus fully understands what I am going through? Read Hebrews 2:9-18, for example. He was for a little while made lower than the angels in order taste death for everyone (9). He was perfected in His work as our great High Priest by suffering as a human (10). He is not ashamed to call us “brethren” (11). He partook of sharing our nature, flesh and blood (14). He had to be made like His brethren in all things to become a merciful and faithful High Priest (17). He was tempted in His suffering, which helps Him come to our aid as we suffer (18). There are a multitude of additional passages reinforcing and supplementing our understanding and appreciation of Christ’s humanity, but the resurrected Jesus wants them to remember His humanity after He ascends to heaven. 

There is a reminder of His history (44-48). It is a mind-boggling truth that Jesus’ history goes back to His preexistence, before He became human. The facet of history of highest interest to Him is sacred history. So, He opened their minds to understand the Scripture (45). He appealed to the three major divisions of the Hebrew Old Testament, the Law, the Prophets, and the Psalms (44). We might call them the books of history, prophecy, and poetry. They are saturated with the themes He elaborates upon in verses 46-47, His suffering, His resurrection, and His plan of salvation. By looking to God’s past revelation, they would be equipped for their present mission and fortified for their future reward. So it is for us today. The verification of Scripture, fulfilled prophecy, 

There is a reminder of His destiny (49-53). It included ascending to heaven to carry out the promise of His Father upon them, to be His witnesses, “clothed with power from on high” (49). Luke gives us fuller details of what happens in this discussion in Acts 1:4-8, and it includes His marching orders and an elaboration of what we read Him telling them about being His witnesses starting in Jerusalem (46-47). His immediate destination is heaven (50), and theirs is Jerusalem (52-53). They went there with great joy and, once there, “were continually in the temple praising God” (53). They were mentally preparing for their earth-shattering, world-changing mission. Heartache was overwhelmed by hope. Disappointment was conquered by determination. They were about to turn the world upside down, an intention they made good on from Jerusalem to Judea, Samaria, and the rest of the world (Acts 1:8; 17:6). Lest we forget, their role in His destiny is the same as ours. We are standing on their shoulders, carrying on their mission today. Jesus needs us to help fulfill His destiny in our world just as He needed them. They rose up and met the challenge! What about us?

Two Cuts To The Heart

Growing up, my brother and I had blowgun battles. We’d roll up paper, shape sticky notes into cones, stick bobby pins in the tips, and—voila—homemade blowgun darts. These weren’t toys! One day, I’m hiding behind a wall, and Dale, from across the kitchen, spots my hand. He shoots with deadly aim. One second I’m fine;

Carl Pollard

In the book of Acts, we find two moments where people were “cut to the heart” by the preaching of God’s truth. In Acts 2, Peter, filled with the Spirit, preaches on Pentecost, and his words cut thousands, leading to repentance, salvation, and the start of the church. In Acts 7, Stephen’s bold preaching before the Sanhedrin cuts their hearts, but instead of turning to God, they turn to rage and murder. Two cuts, two responses—one to life, one to destruction. What made the difference? How do we respond when God’s Word cuts our hearts?

To get this, we need to dig into “cut to the heart” in the Greek. In Acts 2:37, after Peter preaches about Jesus’ death and resurrection, we read, “Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart.” The Greek word is katanyssomai, a rare term meaning “to be pierced” or “stung sharply.” Picture a dart hitting your conscience. Growing up, my brother and I had blowgun battles. We’d roll up paper, shape sticky notes into cones, stick bobby pins in the tips, and—voila—homemade blowgun darts. These weren’t toys! One day, I’m hiding behind a wall, and Dale, from across the kitchen, spots my hand. He shoots with deadly aim. One second I’m fine; the next, a dart’s stuck in my wrist, needle in the bone! Talk about pain! We yanked it out, and my wrist instantly swelled up. When Acts 2 says “cut,” it’s not a paper cut—it’s deep. Peter’s words pierced their core, exposing their sin, and they cried, “What shall we do?” (Acts 2:37).

Now, Acts 7:54. Stephen’s preaching cuts the Sanhedrin’s hearts (“enraged,” ESV), and “they gnashed at him with their teeth.” The Greek word here for “cut” is diapriō, meaning “to saw through” or “cut violently,” like a saw tearing through wood. Their hearts were cut, but with rage, not godly sorrow. Two men stabbed by the same sword: one drops to his knees, seeking a medic; the other, enraged, grips the blade, worsening his wound. Both are cut, but one seeks life, the other death. How often has Scripture stepped on your toes, called out your sin? Ever felt that stab of conviction? Jesus’ words cut the rich young ruler, and he walked away (Mark 10:21-22). In John 6:66, many left after Jesus’ hard teaching. God’s Word is meant to cut and convict, but not all accept it.

In Acts 2, Peter preaches to a diverse crowd on Pentecost, declaring Jesus, whom they crucified, as the risen Messiah. The gospel hits, and they’re “cut to the heart.” They ask, “What shall we do?” (Acts 2:37). Peter says, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins” (Acts 2:38). That day, 3,000 souls were added to the church. Why? They didn’t resist. They saw their sin—guilty of killing God’s Son—and felt the weight. They humbled themselves, repented, were baptized, and found life. David was “a man after God’s own heart” (Acts 13:22) because he listened and obeyed when God’s Word cut him, even when he messed up. God’s Word will call out your sin—lying, lust, pride—and show you the way out. The Acts 2 crowd chose life through humility.

In Acts 7, Stephen, full of faith, stands before the Sanhedrin, exposing their rebellion. He says, “You stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit” (Acts 7:51). The truth cuts deep, but they gnash their teeth, rush him, and stone him, making Stephen the first Christian martyr. Why? Their pride wouldn’t budge. Like Pharaoh in Exodus, whose heart hardened with each plague (Exodus 7:13-14), they rejected the truth to protect their status. Imagine a doctor diagnosing a deadly disease, saying, “Surgery can save you.” One patient trusts and lives; another storms out, angry, and dies. The Sanhedrin chose the latter—truth exposed their sin, but pride blinded them.

Humility separates these responses. Acts 2’s crowd humbled themselves, sought mercy, and found grace. Acts 7’s Sanhedrin clung to pride, choosing judgment. Proverbs 15:33 says, “Before honor is humility.” James 4:6 adds, “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

Be like Acts 2, not Acts 7. How will you respond when God’s Word cuts? First, listen with an open heart. Hebrews 4:12 says God’s Word is “sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit.” Don’t push it away. Second, submit and obey quickly. The Acts 2 crowd didn’t delay—they repented and were baptized. Like the prodigal son (Luke 15), run to God when truth hits. If you’re in their shoes, repent and be baptized—don’t wait. You don’t know when you’ll stand before God. Third, seek God’s help. He empowered Peter and Stephen’s preaching and convicts us today. Pray for a soft heart. Has God’s Word cut you? Is there sin you’ve ignored, a relationship to mend? Will you choose life through humility or death through pride? 

The stakes are eternal.

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!

The Foreshadowing Of Faith

The Bible’s divine nature never ceases to amaze me. The more I study it, the more I’m convinced it’s God’s Word—perfect, infallible, and life-giving. It’s unlike any other book, offering purpose, wisdom, and a unified story of salvation through Christ.

Carl Pollard

The Bible’s divine nature never ceases to amaze me. The more I study it, the more I’m convinced it’s God’s Word—perfect, infallible, and life-giving. It’s unlike any other book, offering purpose, wisdom, and a unified story of salvation through Christ.

What proves a book is divinely inspired? It must be free of errors, contain knowledge beyond human reach, and fulfill prophecies with precision. The Bible does all this. It reveals scientific truths unknown until recently, remains consistent from Genesis to Revelation, and fulfills thousands of prophecies. The odds of just 48 prophecies coming true by chance are 1 in 10^157—an impossibility for human authors. Isaiah 53 and Psalm 22, written centuries before Christ, detail His suffering with uncanny accuracy. Archaeological discoveries and identical manuscripts further confirm its reliability.

For a moment, let’s explore one proof of the Bible’s divine origin: the parallel between Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22 and God’s sacrifice of Jesus. Written 2,000 years before Christ, this account mirrors His sacrifice with stunning precision.

1. A Father’s Love: God asked Abraham to sacrifice his beloved son, Isaac (Gen. 22:2). Similarly, God gave His only Son, Jesus, for us (John 3:16). God’s love for humanity surpassed even His love for His Son.

2. The Son’s Obedience: Isaac, a young man, carried the wood for his sacrifice and didn’t resist (Gen. 22:6, 9). Jesus carried His cross to Golgotha, submitting to God’s will (Luke 22:42). Both show obedient trust we’re called to emulate.

3. The Journey: Abraham and Isaac traveled three days to Moriah (Gen. 22:4). Jesus’ ministry led to the cross. Both journeys reflect trust in God’s plan.

4. A Substitute: God stopped Abraham, providing a ram instead of Isaac (Gen. 22:11-13). Jesus, the Lamb of God, became our substitute, bearing our sins (John 1:29).

5. Resurrection Hope: Abraham believed God could raise Isaac (Heb. 11:19). Jesus rose on the third day (1 Cor. 15:4). Both stories proclaim God’s power over death.

6. Blessing for All: Through Abraham’s obedience, God promised blessings for all nations (Gen. 22:18), fulfilled in Christ’s salvation (Gal. 3:16).

Genesis 22 foreshadows God’s sacrifice of Jesus for humanity. Both Isaac and Jesus, only sons, carried the means of their sacrifice. Isaac was spared; Jesus took our place. The Bible points to the One who gives eternal life. Do you know Him?

The Kind Of Church God Doesn’t Want Us To Be

  Within the one body (Colossians 3:15) He claims, however, are individual congregations who in time depart from His doctrine, lose their distinctiveness, or drift from their evangelistic direction.  When this happens, even these are in danger of rejection (John 12:48).  Churches in Asia Minor felt this sting (cf. Revelation 2:5).  What kind of church does God not want us to be?

Neal Pollard

    The commercials are eye-catching.  The products have differed, but the aim of the ad has been the same.  Sit people, blindfolded, before a TV camera.  Parade a line of tastes and smells before them and let them choose their favorite.  Of course, the camera keeps only the records of the consumers who pick their product over the others.  How many others, whose experiments lay dead on the cutting room floor, choose “the leading brand” over the competitor paying for the commercial?  All of that is neatly set aside, thanks to the selective wonders of technology.

    How many religious groups parade themselves before God in each generation?  From His exalted throne up in heaven, He discards with perfect omniscience all who carry the doctrines of men along with their faith in Christ, their intense morality, or their evangelistic zeal (cf. Matthew 15:13).  He claims only one religious group, the one for which His Son gave His life (Acts 20:28), the one founded upon the foundation of Christ (Matthew 16:18), and the one following the pattern He has left them (John 16:13).

    Within the one body (Colossians 3:15) He claims, however, are individual congregations who in time depart from His doctrine, lose their distinctiveness, or drift from their evangelistic direction.  When this happens, even these are in danger of rejection (John 12:48).  Churches in Asia Minor felt this sting (cf. Revelation 2:5).  What kind of church does God not want us to be?

    God does not want weary churches.  Paul warns against weariness in well-doing (Galatians 6:9).  It is possible to find the narrow way so difficult to travel that a congregation finally gives up on doing right.  The right way is rarely the easiest way.  The opposition of the world pressures God’s people, and faint-hearted saints must strive to endure.

    God does not want weakened churches.  He abhors church leaders who are so afraid of losing “contributors” that they kowtow to them.  His wrath is kindled by preachers so pensive about their pension that they fall prey to tickling the ears of the worldly (2 Timothy 4:3). He has difficulty stomaching a lukewarm membership, made tepid in failing to be distinct (cf. Revelation 3:16). As always, those who stand for nothing will fall for anything.

    God does not want worldly churches.  He warns against it (James 4:4).  When churches try so hard to look like the world to the world, they ultimately fail to reach it.  They have nothing to offer it which it does not already have.  But, in the process, they lose God’s acceptance.

    God does not want “wanting” churches.  Belshazzar was “weighed in the balances” and “found wanting” (Daniel 5:27).  The goal of any church is to get beyond this stage of “wanting” (i.e., lacking) maturation and completion (James 1:4).  But, what about churches who are not trying to grow, win souls, train her males to be preachers, elders, deacons, and teachers, and train her females to be strong, convicted, pure, and holy Christian women, and learn more and more of God’s Word?

    God does not want wasteful churches.  American churches have the overwhelming majority of the money, trained preachers, facilities, schools, persons of influence, healthy bodies, and related resources.  That we are not “turning the world upside down” (Acts 17:6) is surprising.  No church, in these affluent circumstances, should struggle to meet unchallenging budgets.  Brethren should not be begged and prodded to do personal work.  Involvement and commitment should be assumed traits of born-again people!  We are sitting on a gold mine of opportunity and material wealth.  We must be able to stand before the King some day and make a good accounting of our stewardship of these things.

    Opportunities abound before us (Galatians 6:10).  Let us blossom into the churches the Father wants us to be (James 1:27)  — Jesus died for us to be (cf. Titus 2:14), and the Spirit teaches us to be (Revelation 2:7ff).  God wants a willing, working, waiting, and watchful church.  At all costs, let us avoid becoming a church God does not want us to be.

The Split Rock Of Horeb

Rising stark and solemn from the barren Saudi wilderness, the Split Rock of Horeb stands like a silent sentinel of ancient power. Towering nearly 60 feet high, the colossal granite monolith looms over the desolate plain, its weathered and tan flanks are etched by wind and time. But what sets it apart, what seizes the imagination…

Dale Pollard

 —————————————————

It’s not just a rock. 

It’s a rock surrounded by empty silence and scorched earth. It appears, not as a mere geological feature, but a thunderstruck altar where the desert drank. A place where a miracle met stone. 

Rising stark and solemn from the barren Saudi wilderness, the Split Rock of Horeb stands like a silent sentinel of ancient power. Towering nearly 60 feet high, the colossal granite monolith looms over the desolate plain, its weathered and tan flanks are etched by wind and time. But what sets it apart, what seizes the imagination—is the cleft. A prodigious vertical split that is so unnaturally straight it’s as though it were torn by an invisible hand. 

The two halves, still joined at the base, are separated by a gap so wide a man could walk between them. Where is the magic sword from heaven that must have struck it so cleanly? 

At its base, the rock bears smooth channels and grooves—as if torrents of water once burst forth, carving trails into the stone that in wild obedience submit itself to divine command. Light filters through the divide, casting shadows that whisper about that day even to this day.

Yes, the rock still stands. 

Despite centuries of exposure to harsh desert winds, sand, and temperature extremes, the massive split rock remains tall and intact. It has an imposing presence, seemingly sliced vertically in a way that defies typical erosion patterns. The site receives occasional attention, but not too much and rarely up close. 

It’s in a remote, restricted area which is often under military control, and access has historically been limited or even outright prohibited by Saudi powers. 

NO TRESPASSING?

Many of the widely circulated photos and videos of the rock come from unauthorized expeditions, but here’s a couple  stand outs (Ron Wyatt won’t get any attention here). 

Jim and Penny Caldwell

 (1992) 

They were just the average American oil workers living in Saudi Arabia, but with a neat twist.

On numerous occasions they took considerable personal risk by sneaking into restricted areas to document the rock and other sites, including:

  • The Split Rock 
  • The blackened peak of Sinai 
  • Altar-like structures and petroglyphs of bulls (linked to the golden calf story)

Oh, and they had to smuggle all  pictures and footage out of the country. 

Bob Cornuke 

(Late 1990s-Early 2000s)

He was just your average former police investigator, but with a neat twist! 

He collaborated with the Caldwells and visited the site to gather photographic and testimonial evidence. His trips were perfectly reasonable, just slightly (ok, entirely) unauthorized and clandestine.

Other explorers have faced interrogation, arrest, or deportation by Saudi authorities and the government has since built a fence around Split Rock. Access is now heavily restricted or off-limits to the public. 

                      ————————-//————————

Bonus Neat 

Local Bedouins have called it the “Rock of Moses” for generations and their oral traditions speak of how water once flowed from it. Some Bedouins avoid the site entirely. 

Bread Facts 

“And the LORD said to Moses, ‘Pass on before the people, taking with you some of the elders of Israel, and take in your hand the staff with which you struck the Nile, and go.

I will stand before you there on the rock at Horeb, and you shall strike the rock, and water will come out of it, and the people will drink.’ And Moses did this in the sight of the elders of Israel.”

Exodus 17:6-7 

(see also, Numbers 20:1–13) 

The Unchanging Word: Prioritizing Scripture Over Human Tradition

In a bold challenge to the Pharisees, Jesus referenced the words of Isaiah, exposing their critical error: elevating human traditions above the divine commandments of God. Their worship, rooted in human traditions, lacked authenticity, revealing a profound reality: the authority of God’s Word remains unparalleled, and no human custom can replace it.

Brent Pollard

Matthew 15:8-9: “‘This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. In vain do they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men.’”

Mark 7:6-7: “He said to them, ‘Rightly did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written: This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. In vain do they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men.’”

Comedian Isaak Wells’ humorous Skeletor meme, “Traditions are basically just dead people peer pressuring you,” encompasses a profound truth that aligns with a solemn admonition from Jesus. In a bold challenge to the Pharisees, Jesus referenced the words of Isaiah, exposing their critical error: elevating human traditions above the divine commandments of God. Their worship, rooted in human traditions, lacked authenticity, revealing a profound reality: the authority of God’s Word remains unparalleled, and no human custom can replace it.

The Divine Standard: Scripture’s Authority

True scholarship recognizes Scripture as God’s divinely inspired and infallible Word, as affirmed in 2 Timothy 3.16-17. The error of the Pharisees lay in their acceptance of human traditions that obscured the clarity of God’s commands. Matthew Henry observes, “When men’s inventions are tacked to God’s institutions and imposed with equal authority, then worship becomes vain.” Jesus confronted them, asking, “Why do you yourselves transgress the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition?” (Matthew 15.3). This statement affirms the authority of Scripture above all human traditions, calling believers to proclaim what the Bible declares and to hold their tongues where it is silent.

The Heart of True Worship

The rebuke of Jesus reveals the very heart of worship. The Pharisees’ hearts were distant from God, making their worship empty despite appearing pious. Genuine worship captivates the heart (John 4.23-24). Following tradition without discernment places habit above heartfelt devotion, whether in our rituals or church practices. Believers must scrutinize their intentions, ensuring their worship springs from hearts wholly devoted to God.

Discerning Godly Practice

Scripture guides discernment between traditions that honor God and those that mislead:

  • Apostolic Example: The early church embraced traditions like weekly communion (Acts 20.7), congregational singing (Ephesians 5.19; Colossians 3.16), and regular assembly (Hebrews 10.25). Paul praised the Corinthians for maintaining apostolic traditions (1 Corinthians 11.2) but corrected deviations.
  • Berean Standard: The Bereans tested teachings against Scripture daily (Acts 17.11), modeling intellectual integrity and spiritual humility.

Scriptural principles for evaluating traditions include:

  • Biblical Warrant: Does the practice have clear scriptural support via commands, examples, or necessary inferences? (Psalm 119.105)
  • Genuine Worship: Does it draw hearts closer to God in spirit and truth? (John 4.23-24; 1 Peter 2.5)
  • Edification: Does it build the church and promote unity? (1 Corinthians 14.26)
  • Apostolic Alignment: Does it reflect New Testament patterns? (Ephesians 2.20)

Practical Application

Apply discernment in:

  • Worship: Do practices align with biblical patterns of praise, prayer, communion, and proclamation, conducted “decently and in order”? (1 Corinthians 14.40)
  • Church Organization: Does leadership follow biblical qualifications for elders and deacons? (1 Timothy 3; Titus 1)
  • Personal Devotion: Are spiritual disciplines grounded in Scripture, not an empty routine?
  • Christian Living: Do moral standards reflect God’s Word, not cultural or family traditions that contradict it?

The Call to Heart-Deep Faithfulness

Jesus’ rebuke serves as a profound warning and a gracious invitation. Worship that does not arise from deep and sincere devotion lacks true significance. The Lord desires those who worship Him sincerely and authentically, offering lives fully committed to His glory. Reflect on how traditions shape and influence your faith journey. Examine them in light of the Word. If you find yourself aligned, recommit with heartfelt devotion; if not, earnestly seek biblically grounded alternatives through prayer.

Upholding Scripture’s Supremacy

Genuine faith submits every action to the authority of Scripture. When the Word of God declares, we must respond obediently, even when it starkly contrasts our traditions. In the areas where Scripture is silent, let us generously extend love and freedom, refraining from imposing our convictions upon others. This dedication profoundly influences our communion with God. To love Him with all our hearts is to fully embrace His Word, refusing to distort it to conform to the world’s ways.

Embrace Scripture with open hearts, just as the Bereans did, diligently testing everything by its truth. May our worship flow from fully devoted hearts, our practices be rooted in the truth of Scripture, and our loyalty is unwavering to God alone.

Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the NASB® (New American Standard Bible®, 1995 Updated Edition). Copyright © 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

The Truth That Sets Free: Understanding “Aletheia” in John’s Gospel

Brent Pollard

The Gospel of John presents a profound and intricate exploration of truth, beautifully captured in the Greek term aletheia (i.e., truth). This theme transcends mere philosophical inquiry and is a vital cornerstone of John’s theological message, interwoven within his narrative and intent. One of the most striking examples of this theme arises as Jesus stands before Pontius Pilate, bound and facing judgment. The Roman governor’s skeptical inquiry, “What is truth?” (John 18.38), carries a weight of irony, as the essence of truth is present before him, a reality that Pilate cannot perceive. This crucial moment underscores humanity’s recurring struggle to recognize the truth of the divine when confronted with its presence.

The Gospel of John employs this concept of truth approximately 25 times, a notable frequency that significantly exceeds its occurrence in the Synoptic Gospels, underscoring its importance. John clearly articulates his purpose for penning these words: “Therefore many other signs Jesus also performed in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name.” (John 20.30-31). The truth that John advocates is not merely theoretical or scholarly; it is deeply personal, embodied, and ultimately redemptive, guiding one toward faith and everlasting life.

From its first lines, the Gospel reveals Jesus as the embodiment of truth. “And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14). John 1:17 beautifully encapsulates this truth: “For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ.” Thus, truth transcends propositions for discussion; it is a being to be met and understood. In a profound statement, He clearly articulates, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14.6). In this significant narrative, Jesus weaves Himself into the very fabric of the essential themes found within John’s Gospel: He embodies the way to the Divine, stands as the supreme unveiling of truth, and serves as the wellspring of everlasting life. To encounter the essence of Jesus is to grasp the very nature of truth.

The deep bond between the divine and truth is significant for those who seek to follow and honor Him. The Lord speaks to the Samaritan woman, declaring that “true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth” (John 4.23). This declaration is not merely a set of rules but a reflection of genuine worship, arising organically from a sincere understanding of the nature of Jesus. Faith in Jesus as the Messiah enables a form of worship grounded in His revelation’s fullness rather than in fragmented insights or established customs.

Moreover, the truth embodied in Jesus is a source of profound liberation. In the passage from John 8.31-32, there is a significant assurance given to those who place their faith in Him: “If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” This liberty is fundamentally of the spirit, acting as a release from the bondage of transgression. Embracing the teachings of Christ and nurturing a bond with Him opens the door to a profound and liberating transformation.

The Gospel reveals a stark dichotomy between truth and deception, highlighting the profound struggle of the spirit. The Lord challenges those who turn away from Him, showing their loyalty to their “father the devil,” who “does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him.” (John 8.44). This clear division underscores that accepting truth requires a deliberate decision to turn away from darkness and move toward the illumination in Jesus (John 3.19-21).

The Holy Spirit profoundly influences our understanding of truth. The Lord speaks of the Holy Spirit as “the Spirit of truth” (John 14.17) and assures that this Spirit will lead His apostles into “all the truth” (John 16.13). This heavenly guidance is vital for the apostolic testimony that underpins the foundation of the early church. In the solemnity of His “High Priestly Prayer,” the Lord intercedes for His followers, uttering the profound request: “Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.” (John 17.17). The journey of being made holy, a calling to be distinct for divine purposes, unfolds through the truths revealed in the sacred scriptures, culminating in the person of Christ.

John highlights the importance of truth because his role as a witness depends on it. John highlights the importance of truth because his role as a witness depends on it. He consistently asserts the truthfulness of his account, declaring near the cross, “And he who has seen has testified, and his testimony is true; and he knows that he is telling the truth, so that you also may believe.” (John 19:35). He emphasizes this in John 21:24: “This is the disciple who is testifying to these things and wrote these things, and we know that his testimony is true.” For John, truth is not just a conjecture; it requires experience, observation, and thorough documentation to inspire faith.

The notion of aletheia within the Gospel of John is vibrant and centered upon Christ. Truth is the essence of divinity, the embodiment of grace and truth, who walks among us. This profound reality lays the groundwork for genuine worship, grants freedom from sin, consecrates the faithful, and contrasts with deception. Pilate’s question lingers, provoking us to think: Shall we acknowledge and accept the truth that stands before us? John’s Gospel invites us to embrace Jesus as the embodiment of truth, allowing His teachings to transform our lives and, in the spirit of John, to bear witness to the truth that leads us toward everlasting life. To truly know Jesus means embracing the essence of truth, and placing your faith in Him leads to discovering the abundant life, John 10.10, found in His name.

Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are taken from the NASB® (New American Standard Bible®, 1995 Updated Edition). Copyright © 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

The Straight Skinny (Of Timothy)

It’s not a manual for making ministers. Its true value is in the vision that’s laid out in these two letters. It’s God’s instructions for building a strong future of faith and provides the necessary steps that need to be taken if we are to pass the torch to the next generation.

Dale Pollard

It’s a shame that the letters to Timothy got stereotyped into a users manual for young ministers. 

Most summaries of the letters say something along these lines: 

“First Timothy presents the most explicit and complete instructions for church leadership and organization in the entire Bible. This includes sections on appropriate conduct in worship gatherings, the qualifications of elders and deacons, and the proper order of church discipline. Paul advised Timothy on these practical matters in a way that would have helped the young pastor to emphasize education and sound teaching of leaders and members.”

But there’s more to it.

It’s not a manual for making ministers. Its true value is in the vision that’s laid out in these two letters. It’s God’s instructions for building a strong future of faith and provides the necessary steps that need to be taken if we are to pass the torch to the next generation. 

It’s about instilling faithfulness in the young, and it’s about mentoring— mentors (2 Tim. 2:2).

Paul encouraged Timothy to “fight the good fight” (1:18; 6:12). Perseverance in what was good often became a slog for Timothy, one that required thick skin and a clear purpose. The short and sweet of Timothy could be something like this. 

Get up, 

get after it, 

and remember who God called you to be. 

A Fondness For Flogging

Only God knows heart and motives, but we need to guard against a fondness for going after people for their perceived perpetrations. We need to be sure that we are not making mountains out of mole hills, mistaking what offends our sensitivities with what violates God’s will, or making our scruples the standard which others must pledge allegiance to.

Neal Pollard

A Fondness For Flogging

Neal Pollard

Richard Snow authored the book, Sailing The Graveyard Sea, which details the only alleged case of mutiny in the history of the U.S. Navy. There are many interesting circumstances and subplots in this infamous incident, including a failed apprenticeship program, the captain’s literary success, and the sitting secretary of war’s son, accused as the mutiny’s ringleader, and his fascination with piracy. Another notable detail was ship captain Alexander MacKenzie’s fondness for flogging. Snow records that “during his six weeks at anchor in New York, MacKenzie put the colt (a type of whip, NP) to use 422 times, for crimes that ranged from spitting and throwing tea on the deck to blasphemy and ‘skulking'” (69). A former sailor under his charge called out the captain in print for cruel and unusual punishment, saying “he was noted for his cruelty to the men for small offenses and trifling accidents” (ibid.). 

Whatever drove MacKenzie to such fanatical levels of discipline (frequent flogging for apparently minor offenses was somewhat characteristic of that era), it would come up in his court-martial and hang over him in infamy. No less than James Fenimore Cooper would serve as his critic in what became known as “the Somers affair.” 

Jesus tangled with a group who had a verbal tendency to flog those who would not conform to their views. Even the rulers (Jewish leaders) were intimidated by the Pharisees, “for fear that they would be put out of the synagogue” (John 12:42). To the healed blind man that stood up to them, they rebuked, “‘You were born entirely in sins, and are you teaching us?’ So they put him out” (John 9:34). This was part of their larger conspiracy to intimidate those who believed in Jesus (John 9:22). 

No one was a more favored object of their verbal abuse than Jesus. Three times they accused Him of having a demon for accurately calling out their wickedness (John 7:20; 8:48, 52). They accused Him of working for Satan, leading them to blaspheme the Holy Spirit (Mat. 12:25ff). They watched Him closely to find a reason to accuse Him (Luke 6:7). Yet, Jesus had no problem calling them out for it. He says, “You blind guides, who strain out a gnat and swallow a camel” (Mat. 23:24). Read that entire chapter for a divine assessment of their tactics.

A love and passion for truth is praised in Scripture, but a fondness for flogging is not! Truth must be spoken in love (Eph. 4:15), kindness, patience, and gentleness (2 Tim. 2:24-25), and a spirit of gentleness (Gal. 6:1). Long ago, Solomon had said, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Prov. 15:1; cf. 15:18; 25:15). God puts such actions as “disputes, dissensions, factions” in the category of works of the flesh (Gal. 5:20). 

Only God knows heart and motives, but we need to guard against a fondness for going after people for their perceived perpetrations. We need to be sure that we are not making mountains out of mole hills, mistaking what offends our sensitivities with what violates God’s will, or making our scruples the standard which others must pledge allegiance to. A faith in the Father’s form of teaching is imperative, but a fondness for flogging is improper! 

The Gospel Is For ALL!

The news that the good news is for everyone is old news to us, but it is still big news! It does not matter who you are, where you are from, what you have done, or when you hear, the gospel is for you, too!

Neal Pollard

The first time the word “Gentiles” appears in Scripture is in Psalm 2:1 (your translation may have “nations”). Isn’t it interesting that this is a Messianic psalm? According to New Testament writers, the “mystery of Christ” and the “mystery of the gospel” is “that the Gentiles are fellow heirs and fellow members of the body…” (Eph. 3:6; cf. Rom. 16:25-27; Col. 1:27). Prophets like Isaiah foretold this (42:1). That’s incredibly important to you and me, since, presumably, the overwhelming majority of not only those who read this but also those who are members of the New Testament church in the 21st Century are ethnically Gentiles. Acts 10 is where it all began. Jesus’ roadmap of making disciples was ultimately heading to this destination (1:8). 

THE MAN (1-8). Luke introduces us to the Gentile who will first have the opportunity to hear the gospel. His righteous character is outlined: (a) “Devout” (profoundly reverent), (b) God-fearing, (c) Generous, and (d) Prayerful (2). He will later be described as “Cornelius, a centurion, a righteous and God-fearing man well spoken of by the entire nation of the Jews” (22). His “prayers and alms have ascended as a memorial before God” (4). He is directed by an angel of the Lord to send for Peter (5) who would preach to him (22). He was moral and full of faith in God, but he needed instruction and guidance. Though he was a good, moral man, he obviously needed more than that.

THE MISSIONARY (9ff). Peter is the first to preach the gospel to the Jews (Acts 2). Now, the Lord chooses him to be the first to preach it to the Gentiles. However reluctant he was about the first mission, this mission is far more complicated. So, the Lord gives him a visual to illustrate the legitimacy of this new mission. Peter “saw the sky opened up, and an object like a great sheet coming down, lowered by four corners to the ground, and there were in it all kinds of four-footed animals and crawling creatures of the earth and birds of the air. A voice came to him, ‘Get up, Peter, kill and eat!’” (11-13). At first, Peter refuses on the grounds that such was forbidden under the Law of Moses (Lev. 11:20-25; Deut. 14:4-20). But after divine reassurance and re-reassurance (14-16), Peter seems to get the message (cf. 28). When emissaries from Cornelius arrive to find Peter, he gives them lodging (23) then leaves with them the next day for Cornelius’ home (24). 

THE MESSAGE (13ff). Peter has to receive and comprehend the message before he can share it with Cornelius. The message is simple. No person is excluded. No one is unholy and unclean based solely on their ethnicity (15-16). While Peter is trying to connect those dots (17), it begins to make sense to him (19). It will form the launching point when he preaches Jesus to Cornelius and his house (34ff). 

The news that the good news is for everyone is old news to us, but it is still big news! It does not matter who you are, where you are from, what you have done, or when you hear, the gospel is for you, too! It is for your family, your neighbors, your co-workers, your classmates, your friends, your enemies–everybody! That may have started in Acts 10, but it will continue until the second coming of Christ. We must remove any hesitations and prejudices we may harbor and see every person through heavenly eyes. It’s our mission and God’s message for every man (and woman). 

The Circle Of The Earth

Dale Pollard

Note: For a short summary, scroll to the bottom! 

Some interpret verses like Isaiah 40:22 (“God stretches out the heavens like a curtain”) as suggesting the expansion of the universe. It’s possible that this could simply be taken as poetic license but if the expanding universe theory is correct, then perhaps the poetic description carries some literal significance as well. 

Jeremiah states that “the host of heaven cannot be numbered, neither the sand of the sea measured” (33:22), even though the number of visible stars was limited at the time. 

But Isaiah 40:22 states that God “sits above the circle of the earth” and this passage has been the subject of intense scrutiny and interesting debate. 

Circle Means Spherical, Right? 

The Hebrew word for “circle” doesn’t necessarily mean spherical, in fact the word was pretty flexible. It could depict the shape of a compass (Josh. 6.11), or something vaulted, as well as something arched. The question is, could it have been used to refer to something that was/is spherical in shape? 

Smart People Seemed To Think So!

We know Isaiah described the sky as being circular— but then there’s Solomon. He possessed an intellect so impressive that I Kings 4.29ff states that, “God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding beyond measure, and breadth of mind like the sand on the seashore…”. He also authored one of the oldest proverbs in the book of Proverbs and It’s here that the word “circle” is used for the third time in the Bible. What’s even more interesting is that Solomon was likely quoting Job (written aprox. 2100 BC). 

Solomon wrote this, 

“…He established the heavens, I was there; when he drew a circle on the face of the deep” (Proverbs 8.27). 

Job wrote this, 

“He has inscribed a circle on the face of the waters

at the boundary between light and darkness” (Job 26.10). 

To appreciate this mysterious verse even more let’s explore the surrounding verses that dive into the very origin of wisdom. 

THE HISTORY OF WISDOM 

The Hebrew noun for wisdom is feminine which is likely why wisdom is often referred to as “she” in Proverbs. 

Chapter 8.22-31 elucidates her role in creation: 

It describes Lady Wisdom as being with God at the beginning of creation, and she’s the one who brought order from chaos. We’re told that she existed (in the mind of God) before the oceans, mountains, and even, “the first dust of the world.”

She’s God’s wisdom, so divine, but this is the part of God that He used to create. It’s like the relationship between a seed and an apple. The skin, flesh, core, and seeds all make up an apple but the seed is the only part that can produce more apples. Wisdom is both distinct from God and a part of Him at same time. 

What does this have to do with circles? It was the part of God which was utilized in the creation of a circular earth. Since we know that the earth is not flat, then circle must mean spherical because this isn’t man’s wisdom being discussed here.

The Spheroid Springs 

Proverbs 8.28-29 

“…when he made firm the skies above,

when he established the fountains of the deep 

when he assigned to the sea its limit,

so that the waters might not transgress his command,

when he marked out the foundations of the earth.”

The word used for fountains (or springs, ESV) is also the Hebrew word for “eye.” While it may be a curious coincidence, the human eye, like the Earth, isn’t a perfect sphere, but rather a funny-looking shape called  a spheroid. That imagery complements the creation account when one compares the language used to describe how God gathered (bound/collected) the elements, earth and water, into one place (Genesis 1.9-10). 

SUMMARY 

  1. Earth must be a kind of circle that serves as a fixed boarder between the outer darkness of space (Proverbs 8.27, Job 26.22). 
  2. A circle containing the sky above and the deep below (Proverbs 8.28)— must be spherical. 
  3. The Hebrew word for “circle” is ambiguous enough that it can describe anything which “goes around” or “covers” something. 

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? 

What A Man Can Do

Who defines what a man is? Is he defined by physical, intellectual, emotional, and/or spiritual traits? What does the Bible have to say?

Dale Pollard

I wasn’t the only one who grew up playing a game the older kids called “man can.” It was a dangerous game that put your courage to the test and it wasn’t for the faint of heart either. Every participant would lay with their heads together in the form of a circle. Then one would take an aluminum can (occasionally filled with rocks or sand) and throw it into the air. Whoever the can hit in the face became the next lucky player who got to throw the can. This gave the victim an opportunity to get revenge if he had the skill and aim it took to do so.

There are many things men can’t do and not everything a man can do should be done. Thankfully the Bible has plenty of encouraging sections that lead men to consider what a man can and should do. 

  • ACT LIKE A MAN – I Cor. 16.13-14 
  • WALK LIKE A MAN – Ps. 1.1-6 
  • RUN LIKE A MAN – I Tim. 6.11 
  • A MAN CAN BE PURE – Ps. 119.9-16
  • STRENGTHEN YOUR BROTHERS  – Prov. 27.17
  • A MAN CAN BE GOOD – Mic. 6.8 
  • THE MAN’S SACRIFICE – Eph. 5.22-25 
  • THE LEGACY OF MAN – Ps. 122.1-10
  • MAN’S IMAGE & DOMINION – Gen. 1.26
  • PROVE YOU’RE A MAN – I Kg. 2.1-3 
  • TRAIN LIKE A MAN – I Tim. 4.8 
  • FIGHT LIKE A MAN – Eph. 6.10-18
  • A MAN CAN CONFESS HIS SIN – I Jn. 1.9 
  • LEAD LIKE A MAN – Jg. 6.12 
  • LOVE LIKE A MAN – Col. 3.9 

Worthy of Praise!

Have you ever made a list of why God is worthy to be praised? David did, in Psalm 111. Take a moment and explore his inspired, itemized list…

Neal Pollard

WORTHY OF PRAISE (PSALM 111)

Neal Pollard

One of those names that remind me of my childhood love of singing is Tillit S. Teddlie, a prolific songwriter and member of the church of Christ who lived to be 102. His songs have a trademark sound, and we have sung so many of them: “Heaven Holds All To Me,” “When We Meet In Sweet Communion,” “Oft We Come Together,” “Singing Redemption’s Song,” “Hear Me When I Call,” “Don’t Wait Too Long,” and “Into Our Hands.” He wrote about soul-winning and personal devotion, but he also devoted a lot of his hymns to worship. I love his song, “Worthy Art Thou.” 

It is said that Teddlie wrote this hymn in 1930, sitting on his front porch on a Sunday morning. He was studying a commentary, Johnson’s Notes, looking for something to put into his sermon. His Bible was open to Revelation, where the elders are before the throne and singing, “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing” (Rev. 5:11)(biographical info via hymnstudies.blog). Teddlie could as easily have been studying Psalm 111. While the phrase, “worthy of praise,” is not found in the psalm, the psalmist calls for praise and then sets out to show why. 

HIS WORKS ARE WORTHY OF PRAISE

The psalm’s writer mentions God’s “work” and “works” four times in this brief psalm. They are “great” and “studied” by those who delight in Him (2). They are splendid and majestic (3). They are “powerful” (6). “The works of His hands are truth and justice” (7). The God who created everything did not step back and cease His activity among men after the creation. The God who calls for our works of obedience sets the example by continuing to work in the affairs of mankind. Whether His natural laws set in motion at the creation, His providential care, His answer to prayer, or His redemption, He is at work! For this, He deserves our praise. 

HIS WONDERS ARE WORTHY OF PRAISE

“He has made His wonders to be remembered” (4). These are unusual things beyond human capabilities. It means “to be wonderful” or “to cause a wonderful thing to happen” (TWOT 723). While the psalmist doesn’t mention specifically what these wonders are or give examples, any of the attributes and actions would qualify. The psalmist mentions who He is and what He has done. If we think deeply about those, we are left to dwell on how incredible and awesome our God is!

HIS WORD IS WORTHY OF PRAISE

The psalmist does not confine his praise to God’s nature and activity. There are His precepts (7), His commandments (10), and His covenant (5,9). God’s greatness is found in what He has revealed to us and what that revelation does for us in this life and for the life to come. My maker has seen to it we have the owner’s manual, to help us know how to best live. I am blessed by His truth (7,8). 

HIS WISDOM IS WORTHY OF PRAISE

While I must obtain wisdom myself, it is truly a “wisdom from above” (Jas. 3:17). I get wisdom through the fear of the Lord (10). This good understanding, brought about by His Word (see above), helps me avoid the folly of the unbeliever and the heartache of the rebellious. 

When I assemble with the saints to worship, I need to have a proper frame of mind. That occurs by intentional preparation beforehand. It helps me to meditate on who God is and what I am about to do in worship. This can help me focus and bring a better offering. There is no shortage of matters to consider. This psalm shows me just a few of the reasons why the object of my worship is praiseworthy! 

“Jesus Certain”

After nearly five months in the hospital, Brent makes his return to HIS slot, the Friday article! We’re so pleased and excited to have him back and he’s speaking of blessed assurance…

Brent Pollard

A London-based direct marketer of promotional merchandise has a memorable slogan that reflects the trustworthiness of its brand. Just as a trusted marketer’s slogan inspires confidence in its customers, our faith in Jesus Christ gives us even more assurance. We can say we are “Jesus certain” about our salvation.

Believing in someone’s or something’s ability to keep promises brings valuable peace of mind. Spiritually, we have such faith in the salvation promised through obedience to Jesus Christ that we can say we are “Jesus certain.” Here are a few passages that give us this assurance.

Building on this foundation of trust, Peter reminds us that God has given us everything we require for life and godliness (2 Peter 1.3). The essence of this truth lies in God’s word, which contains the precious and magnificent promises that He has graciously bestowed upon us (2 Peter 1.4). We can be “Jesus certain.”

John expands on this idea, reminding us that our confidence is based on the truth of God’s word, as expressed in 1 John 5:13. John wrote his epistle to assure his readers of the precious gift of eternal life that awaits them. The divine message explains the path to salvation with clarity and purpose. As a result, we can be confident in our salvation. We can truly know. We can be “Jesus certain.”

However, this motivates us to study the Scriptures and follow the path of salvation. Peter emphasizes confirming our calling and election (2 Peter 1.10). Paul instructs us to work out our salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12). We can be “Jesus certain.”

Throughout the scriptures, we find numerous assurances of our salvation: Peter promises us equipped godliness, John emphasizes the certainty of eternal life, and Paul encourages us to work out our salvation. Together, these passages remind us of our unwavering faith in Jesus Christ, of how we are “Jesus certain.”

May we cling steadfastly to our assurance of salvation through Jesus Christ. Let us persevere in our search for wisdom in the Scriptures, embracing our divine calling and assurance with steadfast hearts. As we journey in faith and obedience, let us strive to work out our salvation with reverence and awe, knowing that we can be “Jesus certain” of the eternal life that awaits us. Let this assurance inspire us to live purposefully daily and commit to our salvation journey.

Origen’s “On First Principles” (Book I, 1)

Gary Pollard

[Editor’s Note: Gary is translating the Ante-Nicene Fathers works, beginning with Origin’s work. It is meant to update the British English of Roberts and Donaldson. What follows is part of that translation]

I know that some people will try to say that God is physical somehow. This is because Moses said “Our God is a fire that destroys.” And in John’s gospel, “God is spirit, so the people who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” According to those people, these are clear proofs that God has a body. Fire and spirit are tangible things, and those passages say that God is those things. But I have to ask those people: what do you do with the verse that says “God is light”? The same John also wrote “God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all.” It’s true! God is the light that gives us an understanding of truth, at least to people who are capable of taking it in. One of the Psalms says, “Your light lets us see light.” Is there any other kind of light that can bring enlightenment? Only God’s influence can give us an understanding of what is true. His influence is what leads us to him, because he is truth itself. That’s what the expression “your light allows us to see light” means — his light is Jesus, who makes it possible for us to see the father. Just because God is called “light” doesn’t mean that it’s like the light of the sun. It would be absurd for anyone to think that sunlight gives them access to the primal source of knowledge. It would be absurd to think that sunlight could lead someone to understand truth. 

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.