Bible Q&A: What Exactly is a Graven Image?

What exactly is a graven image? The term “graven image” (Ex. 20:4) comes from the Hebrew term pecel which literally means “idol” or “carved image.”  As noted in the previous question about Buddha, idolatry comes in many forms.  One of the most common forms of idolatry in biblical times was the worshiping of gods manifested in statues or images… Read More Bible Q&A: What Exactly is a Graven Image?

Bible Q&A: Is Hebrews 10:25 Being Followed When Christians Worship Online?

Is Hebrews 10:25 being followed when Christians worship online? A careful study of Hebrews 10:25 is needed in order to correctly answer this question.  The command is to not “forsake” the assembly, “as is the habit of some.”  “Forsake” comes from the Greek word egkataleipo, which literally means to abandon, desert, totally abandon, utterly forsake.  The Hebrew Christians to whom the… Read More Bible Q&A: Is Hebrews 10:25 Being Followed When Christians Worship Online?

Bible Q&A: A Question About Repentance and Forgiveness

If someone wrongs me and doesn’t repent, am I obligated to forgive them? Jesus commands us to forgive ON THE CONDITION OF repentance (Lk. 17:3-4).  Even if the wrongs are continually done and yet are still continually accompanied by repentance, forgiveness is required.  This would also mean that forgiveness would not be required if the… Read More Bible Q&A: A Question About Repentance and Forgiveness

My Thoughts on Luke 1:31-33

I love Christmastime because so many in our culture think a lot about Jesus during this time.  While the actual holiday of Christmas nor the actual birth date of Jesus are not found in the Bible, nonetheless most of us think about Him and His birth these days.  So if you are one who thinks a lot about a little baby in a manger in Bethlehem during this month, I encourage you to take some time to also think about what Gabriel said to Mary that her boy would become.  Mary’s son – God’s Son – is currently King of kings and Lord of lords, reigning over His church.… Read More My Thoughts on Luke 1:31-33

Bible Q&A: Is It Sinful to Have Art Like Buddha or Confucius In One’s Home?

Is it sinful to have cultural art that includes images of Buddha, Confucius, or other figures of the like in the home? Several biblical and cultural principles must be kept in mind when considering this question.  First, it must be acknowledged that Buddhism and Confucianism are false religions which are predominant in many eastern cultures. … Read More Bible Q&A: Is It Sinful to Have Art Like Buddha or Confucius In One’s Home?