Introduction In Matthew 10:26, Jesus said, “there is nothing concealed that will not be revealed.” I wonder if He might have had this chapter of Esther in mind. After all, there are no real witnesses to all the plotting and manipulation going on here. Though God’s name never appears in this book, His hand is … Continue reading Esther Chapter 3: Misplaced Honor and God’s Unseen Hand
Esther 2 — The Hidden Hand of Providence
Esther 2 begins with a kingdom in turmoil and a king in regret. Behind the grandeur of Persia’s empire and the beauty of its palace lies a subtle but powerful truth: even when God’s name is not mentioned, His hand is everywhere at work. The events of this chapter unfold as a tapestry woven by … Continue reading Esther 2 — The Hidden Hand of Providence
Esther Chapter 1: When God Seems Silent
The story begins with King Xerxes (aka Ahasuerus) throwing a lavish feast, filled with excess and pride. The king is strutting his stuff for the princes and nobles of the empire. Why? As best we know from history, he is likely building confidence and support for his planned invasion of Greece. Think May Day parade in 500 … Continue reading Esther Chapter 1: When God Seems Silent
Introduction: Discovering God’s Hidden Hand
I am excited to say that my church is starting a preaching series through the Book of Esther. One commentator has said that this is the most overlooked and understudied book in the Bible. The Old Testament writers never referred to the book. The New Testament writers allude to three times, just once in each … Continue reading Introduction: Discovering God’s Hidden Hand
What Preterists Get Wrong about Matthew 23:34
The dispensational response to the preterist interpretation of Matthew 23:34, which states, "Therefore I am sending you prophets and wise men and teachers. Some of them you will kill and crucify; others you will flog in your synagogues and pursue from town to town," emphasizes a literal hermeneutic, continuity in God’s plan for Israel, and the future fulfillment … Continue reading What Preterists Get Wrong about Matthew 23:34
Who Are the Preterists?
While I am not a fan I think it is important to point out that some form or preterism has been supported by numerous theologians and scholars throughout the centuries. Below is a list of some prominent proponents, organized by their theological perspectives and historical importance: Historical Advocates Origen (c. 185–254) Origen’s allegorical method of … Continue reading Who Are the Preterists?
Understanding Preterism: A Brief Overview
Eschatology—the study of “last things”—is a fascinating part of theology, and few perspectives spark as much curiosity and controversy as preterism. While it may not align with everyone’s beliefs, preterism offers a unique understanding of biblical prophecy. Preterists contend that many biblical prophecies—especially those found in Matthew 24, the book of Daniel, and Revelation—were fulfilled within … Continue reading Understanding Preterism: A Brief Overview
In the Word, Through the Major Prophets in a Year
Tomorrow we will be kicking off our next "In the Word" project. We will be reading through the major prophets in a year. This probably raises some questions in your mind. For example, who are they? And, why are they called the Major Prophets? Well, the major prophets are Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, and Daniel. … Continue reading In the Word, Through the Major Prophets in a Year
The End Times in Order, The War of Ezekiel 38 & 39
https://youtu.be/FELlp3AvrwU One of the questions that dispensational Bible scholars disagree over is when does the war described in Ezekiel chapters 38 and 39 occur? At least five different scenarios are offered. In this video I go through each of the options and end up offering a suggestion that I think best accounts for all the … Continue reading The End Times in Order, The War of Ezekiel 38 & 39
Romans Chapter 2
Romans Chapter 2 is our reading for today. From Romans 1:18 to 3:20 Paul is explaining the horrible impact of sin. The time we live in honors sin and ridicules holiness. This and the next chapter of Romans puts sin back into its proper perspective as something that dishonors God and destroys lives. It is … Continue reading Romans Chapter 2
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