There are numerous words that we use in our daily vocabulary that have changed meaning over the years. Have we allowed ourselves to appropriate a meaning to the word âGentileâ that was not intended? In Galatians, the second chapter we see Paul giving the account of Peterâs example as a Jew when he separated himself from the Gentiles fearing what other Jews would think. The Jews regarded Gentiles as inferior. Eastonâs Bible Dictionary states the definition of "Gentile" as (Hebrew, usually in … [Read more...] about God’s Goyim
Salvation
Expressions of Tribalism
It is difficult to escape the feeling that our world is becoming more divided by the day. For example, we are hearing more about political identity. While it has been quite customary to identify with some political party in terms of general policy, the term has now developed a sharper edge. Amy Chua writing in The Guardian newspaper notes: âWhen groups feel threatened, they retreat into tribalism. When groups feel mistreated and disrespected, they close ranks and become more insular, more … [Read more...] about Expressions of Tribalism
Holy Days Pinpoint Priorities
The world has become a decidedly edgy place. There is tension and anxiety in the air. This is particularly observable in the political arena - especially in the realm of international relations. If we look at just one marker â political elections â the unease is clearly evident. In reaction to the developing of negative social conditions, there is often a trend to turn to âhard-lineâ leadership in the search for remedies. In Europe, and Germany in particular, the current leadership has suffered … [Read more...] about Holy Days Pinpoint Priorities
Why Canât Man Govern Himself?
The Creator gave humanity a fantastic opportunity and a perfect environment after Satan's rebellious war had caused the earth to become without form and void. Satan, as Heylel, had rejected Godâs government and chaos and confusion was the result (Genesis 1:2). As God considered the creation of man in His image, He moved to clean up the earth to provide a âvery goodâ environment for man to live in. âYou sent forth Your Spirit, they are created; and You renew the face of the earthâ (Psalm … [Read more...] about Why Canât Man Govern Himself?
The Garden of Eden
Scholars have long scratched their heads trying to figure out the exact location of the garden God planted eastward in Eden. That it is a physical place is not in doubt. Out of the ground the Eternal made trees grow that were pleasing to the sight and good for food. The garden was watered by a river, which then parted into four rivers. It was into this physical setting that man was placed with the instructions to tend and keep the garden. It must have been a fabulous environment as everything … [Read more...] about The Garden of Eden
The Red Sea and Beyond
When you think about it, the Israelites went through an intense program of redirecting their entire lives through the events of their exodus from Egypt. After a lengthy period of living in Egypt they went from âthe people multiplied and grew very mightyâ to âthe Egyptians made the children of Israel serve with rigor.â The bondage of Egypt was mind destroying â at least as far as knowledge of God and His way was concerned. Did God cause this grievous situation of slavery to make a point for … [Read more...] about The Red Sea and Beyond