What Is the First Lutheran Church?

Is Creed Christian?

Is Creed Christian?Creed’s music often reflects Christian themes, but the band itself does not identify explicitly as Christian. Their lyrics explore spiritual and moral struggles, redemption, and hope, resonating with Christian audiences while maintaining broad mainstream appeal.1. Christian Themes in Their LyricsSongs like “With Arms Wide Open” and “Higher” convey messages of love, hope, and a yearning for a better understanding of life and spirituality. These themes align with Christian values but are presented in a way that appeals to diverse listeners.2. Scott Stapp’s FaithScott Stapp, Creed’s lead singer, has openly discussed his Christian faith and its influence on his life and music. His personal testimony has inspired many fans, even though the band’s work is not explicitly labeled as Christian.3. Audience ReceptionCreed’s music has found a strong following among Christian and non-Christian listeners alike, showcasing the universal appeal of their themes.ConclusionWhile Creed incorporates Christian elements in their music, they do not explicitly identify as a Christian band. Their work invites listeners to explore themes of faith, struggle, and redemption, making them accessible to a wide audience (Romans 12:2).

What Does the Bible Say About Wrath?

What Does the Bible Say About Wrath?The Bible speaks about wrath in various contexts, often distinguishing between human wrath and God's wrath. Wrath, as a human emotion, is generally seen as sinful when it leads to uncontrolled anger or vengeance. In James 1:19-20, it is written, "Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God." This indicates that human wrath, when unchecked, does not bring about godly outcomes and should be avoided.However, God's wrath is portrayed differently. It is a righteous and just response to sin and evil. In Romans 1:18, Paul writes, "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness." God's wrath is not impulsive or uncontrolled but is a necessary part of His justice. It is often associated with judgment and the consequences of sin.God's Wrath and JudgmentThroughout the Bible, God's wrath is connected to His holiness and righteousness. In the Old Testament, God’s wrath was shown in events such as the flood (Genesis 6-9) and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19). These acts of judgment were responses to the rampant sin and immorality of those societies.In the New Testament, God's wrath is also connected to the final judgment at the end of times. Revelation 19:15 speaks of Jesus returning to judge the nations, saying, "And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God." God’s wrath is a part of His justice and is meant to hold the wicked accountable.Human Wrath and ForgivenessOn the other hand, human wrath is admonished in the Bible, especially when it leads to unforgiveness or violence. Jesus teaches that Christians should love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them (Matthew 5:44). In Ephesians 4:31-32, Paul advises believers, "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you." Wrath and unforgiveness are not part of the Christian walk, and believers are called to respond with love and compassion.In conclusion, while God's wrath is a righteous response to sin, human wrath is often a sinful emotion that leads to harm and division. The Bible calls Christians to avoid wrath and embrace forgiveness, kindness, and love.

What Does John 1:3 Create?

What Does John 1:3 Create? John 1:3 is a significant verse in the Bible that explains the creative work of Jesus Christ. It states, "All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made." This verse highlights the role of Jesus, referred to as the Word, in the creation of everything that exists. The Meaning of Creation in John 1:3 According to John 1:3, all things — including the universe, earth, plants, animals, and humans — came into existence through Jesus. This means He is the divine agent of creation, involved in bringing everything into being. Everything Was Made Through Him The phrase "made through Him" emphasizes that Jesus was the active force in creation. Nothing was created apart from Him, which shows His supreme power and authority over all creation. Nothing Was Made Without Him This part of the verse reinforces that no part of creation exists independently of Jesus. His presence and power are essential to the existence of everything. Summary   John 1:3 declares that Jesus is the creator of all things.   He is the divine Word through whom the entire universe was made.   Nothing exists without His involvement in creation. In conclusion, John 1:3 teaches that Jesus Christ is the source and agent of all creation, affirming His divine nature and authority over everything that exists.

What Would Jesus Really Look Like?

What Would Jesus Really Look Like? The physical appearance of Jesus Christ has been the subject of much speculation and artistic interpretation over the centuries. The Bible does not provide a detailed description of Jesus' appearance, but there are some clues in the text. In Isaiah 53:2 (KJV), it is written, "For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him." This suggests that Jesus did not have a remarkable or striking physical appearance. Historical Context of Jesus' Appearance Considering Jesus lived in the region of Judea during the 1st century, He most likely resembled a typical Jewish man of that time. Jesus would have had Middle Eastern features—dark skin, dark hair, and possibly a beard, which was customary for men of His culture. Historically, Jesus would have been around 5'1" to 5'5" tall, with a build typical for men of that era, though again, these details are inferred from cultural and historical context rather than direct biblical descriptions. Why Does Jesus' Appearance Matter? The Bible emphasizes the importance of Jesus' teachings, His miracles, and His sacrificial death and resurrection rather than His physical appearance. As seen in 1 Samuel 16:7 (KJV), God does not judge by outward appearance but looks at the heart: "But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart." Jesus' mission was centered on His message of salvation, not His looks, which is why the Bible doesn't emphasize His outward appearance.