A List of Essential Bible Terms

Are Church Donations Tax Deductible?

Understanding Tax Deductions for Church DonationsDonating to a church is a meaningful way to support ministry and outreach efforts, and many countries provide tax benefits for such contributions. In the United States, church donations are typically tax-deductible, provided the church qualifies as a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.Conditions for Tax DeductibilityEligible Organizations: Donations must be made to recognized tax-exempt churches or religious organizations.Proper Documentation: Donors should retain records, such as receipts or bank statements, for contributions of $250 or more.Itemized Deductions: To claim a deduction, taxpayers must itemize their deductions on their tax return rather than taking the standard deduction.Additional ConsiderationsWhile monetary donations are the most common, non-cash contributions, such as property or goods, may also be deductible if their value is properly assessed. Matthew 6:21 encourages believers to give with pure intentions: "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." Giving to churches not only benefits the community but also aligns with biblical teachings on generosity.Tax-deductible donations serve as a practical way to support churches while receiving financial benefits, encouraging believers to contribute cheerfully and responsibly.

What Does God Say About Hate?

What Does God Say About Hate?Hate is a strong and destructive emotion, and the Bible addresses it clearly. God calls His people to love, and hate is seen as a sin that harms relationships and leads to division. Understanding what the Bible teaches about hate helps believers recognize its danger and the importance of choosing love over hate.God’s Command to LoveJesus commands His followers to love one another. In John 13:34-35, He says, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” Love is at the core of Christian identity, and hatred is directly opposed to this command.The Danger of HateThe Bible warns against harboring hatred in one’s heart. 1 John 3:15 states, “Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.” Jesus also teaches in Matthew 5:21-22 that hatred is akin to murder in God’s eyes, for it destroys the heart and relationships. Hate leads to bitterness, anger, and division, and it is incompatible with the love that God calls His people to demonstrate.ConclusionGod calls His people to love, not hate. Christians are urged to reflect God’s love in their relationships, overcoming hatred with kindness, forgiveness, and compassion. When Christians choose love over hate, they honor God and bear witness to His transformative power in their lives.

What Tribe Did Isaiah Say Jesus Was Supposed to Be?

What Tribe Did Isaiah Say Jesus Was Supposed to Be? The Bible prophecies about the Messiah indicate that Jesus would come from the tribe of Judah. In Isaiah 11:1 (KJV), it is written, "And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots." Jesse is the father of King David, and the tribe of Judah is associated with David’s lineage. Jesus, as the Messiah, fulfilled the prophecy of coming from David’s line, confirming His royal and messianic heritage. The Significance of the Tribe of Judah The tribe of Judah holds a special place in biblical prophecy. Jesus being from this tribe fulfills the promise made to David in 2 Samuel 7:16 (KJV), "And thine house and thy kingdom shall be established for ever before thee: thy throne shall be established for ever." This prophecy assures that the Messiah would come from David’s family, and through Jesus, this promise was fulfilled. The tribe of Judah was considered the royal tribe, with kings such as David and Solomon arising from it. The Messiah and the Lineage of Jesus Both the Old and New Testaments reinforce that Jesus came from the lineage of Judah, confirming His role as the long-awaited Messiah. In Matthew 1:1 (KJV), the genealogy of Jesus begins with, "The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham." This lineage highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and establishes Jesus as the promised descendant of King David, from the tribe of Judah.

Will God Provide?

Will God Provide?The Bible assures believers that God is a faithful provider who meets the needs of His people. Trusting in His provision is a key aspect of the Christian life, grounded in His promises and demonstrated throughout Scripture.God’s Promises to ProvidePhilippians 4:19 declares, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” This verse underscores God’s ability to meet every need according to His abundance.Examples of God’s ProvisionThe Bible contains numerous accounts of God providing for His people, such as His provision of manna for the Israelites in the wilderness (Exodus 16:14-15) and His care for Elijah through the ravens (1 Kings 17:6). These stories remind believers of His faithfulness.Trusting God in All CircumstancesMatthew 6:31-33 encourages, “Take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? … But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Trusting God involves prioritizing His kingdom and relying on His provision.ConclusionGod’s provision is a reflection of His love and care for His people. By trusting in His promises and seeking His kingdom, believers can rest in the assurance that He will meet their needs (Psalm 23:1).