What Does the Bible Say About Pork?

Who Cleaned Jesus' Feet?

The Humility of Jesus: Who Cleaned His Feet? In the Gospel of John, we find a powerful scene that demonstrates the profound humility of Jesus. During the Last Supper, Jesus washed the feet of His disciples, an act of servitude that shocked those present. This act was not just about physical cleansing but symbolized spiritual humility and the love that Jesus had for His followers. The Foot Washing in John 13 In John 13:4-5, we read, "He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself. After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded." This act, typically reserved for servants, was a dramatic reversal of roles. Jesus, their Teacher and Lord, humbly served them, demonstrating that greatness in God's kingdom comes through humility and service to others. The Significance of the Act Peter, initially reluctant, asked Jesus why He was washing their feet, to which Jesus replied, "What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter" (John 13:7). Peter then insisted, "Thou shalt never wash my feet." Jesus answered, "If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me" (John 13:8). This teaches that to fully embrace Jesus' salvation, one must allow Him to serve and cleanse them, symbolizing the forgiveness of sins. Teaching of Servant Leadership After washing their feet, Jesus instructed His disciples in John 13:14-15: "If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you." This is a call to humility and servanthood for all believers, reminding us that true leadership is marked by selfless service to others.

What Is Relevant Faith in American Christianity?

Searching for a Meaningful American ChristianityIn today’s fast-changing culture, many believers seek a faith that is both biblically grounded and culturally relevant. A meaningful Christianity in America must balance the timeless truths of Scripture with the challenges of modern society, offering hope and guidance in uncertain times.Key Aspects of Relevant FaithLiving the Gospel: Faith should go beyond ritual and tradition, reflecting the love and teachings of Christ in daily actions and decisions.Social Responsibility: Addressing issues like poverty, inequality, and justice with compassion and biblical principles.Community Engagement: Building relationships and creating spaces where the gospel can be shared authentically in modern contexts.Biblical Foundations for Relevant FaithJames 1:27 offers a template for impactful faith: "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world." This verse reminds Christians of their call to serve others while maintaining personal holiness.Acts 17:6 also speaks to the transformative power of faith: "These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also." Relevant faith does not compromise biblical truth but uses it as a foundation to address societal challenges with love and integrity.By living out these principles, American Christians can create a faith that is both personal and transformative, impacting their families, communities, and the nation as a whole.

Why Do People Say Jesus H. Christ?

Why Do People Say Jesus H. Christ? The phrase "Jesus H. Christ" is a commonly used expression, often in moments of surprise, frustration, or exasperation. While it may seem casual or irreverent to some, it has deep historical and linguistic origins. It is important to explore why this expression exists and its implications in the context of faith. The Origins of the "H" in Jesus H. Christ The "H" in the phrase is not a reference to a middle name for Jesus but rather stems from the historical use of monograms. In early Christian tradition, the letters "IHS" were used to represent the name of Jesus. These letters are derived from the Greek word "Ἰησοῦς" (Iesous), which is the name of Jesus in the New Testament. The "H" was a result of a misinterpretation or transcription error in the Latin alphabet. The monogram "IHS" became a common symbol for Christ, and over time, people mistakenly expanded this into the expression "Jesus H. Christ." This was not originally a doctrinal statement but rather an expression of speech. The Use of "Jesus H. Christ" as an Exclamation In modern culture, the phrase is often used as an exclamation in moments of shock or frustration. While the intention behind the phrase may not always be religious, it still uses the name of Jesus, which can be troubling for some who see it as disrespectful or irreverent. The Bible teaches that the name of Jesus is to be revered, as seen in Philippians 2:10-11: "That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." The Importance of Reverence for Jesus' Name As Christians, the name of Jesus should be spoken with reverence and awe. The use of Jesus' name in casual or irreverent ways goes against the commandment to honor God's name. In Matthew 6:9, Jesus taught His disciples to pray, saying, "Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name." Christians are reminded to treat Jesus' name with utmost respect and to avoid using it in vain. The expression "Jesus H. Christ" is a reminder of how language can impact our reverence for sacred things. Conclusion The phrase "Jesus H. Christ" originated from historical monograms but is often used casually today as an exclamation. While the phrase may seem harmless to some, it is important for believers to remember the significance of Jesus’ name and to use it with reverence, as it reflects His divine nature and the respect due to Him as Lord and Savior.

What Does the Bible Say About Eating Certain Fish?

What Does the Bible Say About Eating Certain Fish?The Bible provides guidelines for what animals can be eaten in Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14, where it lists clean and unclean animals. Fish are considered clean to eat if they have fins and scales, while those without these characteristics are considered unclean.Guidelines for Clean and Unclean AnimalsIn Leviticus 11:9-12, God gives instructions regarding what fish are clean, stating, "These shall ye eat of all that are in the waters: whatsoever hath fins and scales in the waters, in the seas, and in the rivers, them shall ye eat." Fish without fins or scales, such as shellfish, are considered unclean according to Old Testament law.New Testament PerspectiveIn the New Testament, the dietary restrictions of the Old Testament are reinterpreted. In Acts 10:13-15, Peter is told in a vision, "Rise, Peter; kill, and eat." God declares that all foods are clean, signaling a shift from the old law. However, Christians are still encouraged to live with respect for God’s commands and consider their choices in the light of their faith.Why This MattersWhile Christians are no longer bound by the Old Testament dietary laws, the principles of cleanliness and respect for God’s creation remain relevant. Believers are encouraged to honor God in all aspects of life, including what they consume, with gratitude and consideration.