What Does John 20:29 Bless?

What Does God Say About Piercings?

What Does God Say About Piercings?The Bible contains a few references to body piercings, primarily in the context of cultural practices. While the Bible does not explicitly prohibit piercings, it offers principles about honoring God with one’s body and avoiding vanity or idolatry.Body as a TempleIn 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Paul reminds Christians, "What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?" This passage emphasizes that the body should be treated with respect and used to honor God, suggesting that decisions about body modifications like piercings should be considered carefully.Cultural Context of PiercingsIn the Old Testament, piercings were sometimes used as a sign of ownership or servitude. In Exodus 21:6, a servant’s ear was pierced as a sign of a permanent commitment to serve a master. Additionally, Isaiah 3:16-24 critiques the vanity of the women of Jerusalem who adorned themselves excessively with jewelry, including earrings and nose rings, as a symbol of their pride and materialism.Why This MattersWhile piercings themselves are not inherently sinful, the Bible calls believers to avoid excessive adornment and vanity. The heart and motivation behind the decision to get a piercing should be examined to ensure it aligns with God’s call for modesty, humility, and honoring Him with our bodies.

What Does God Say About Defending Yourself Physically?

What Does God Say About Defending Yourself Physically?Physical defense is a topic that many Christians consider in times of danger. The Bible does not directly address the modern concept of self-defense, but it provides guidance on protecting others and standing up for oneself in the face of harm. Understanding these principles can help Christians respond appropriately to physical threats while maintaining a spirit of peace and justice.Jesus and Non-ViolenceJesus often taught peace and non-violence. In Matthew 5:39, He says, “But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.” This passage suggests that Christians are called to respond to personal offense with humility and patience. However, this teaching is primarily focused on personal retaliation rather than physical self-defense in times of danger.Defending Others and JusticeWhile Christians are called to live at peace, the Bible also acknowledges the importance of defending others. Proverbs 31:8-9 speaks of defending the rights of the oppressed, “Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction. Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.” In a situation where self-defense is necessary to protect others or preserve life, the Bible supports the idea of standing up for justice and the protection of innocent lives.ConclusionGod calls Christians to live peaceably and avoid violence, yet the Bible also recognizes the need for self-defense in some situations, especially when protecting others or preventing harm. Christians should seek wisdom and discernment in balancing the command for peace with the responsibility to defend life and justice.

Why God’s Existence Is Not Special Pleading

Why God’s Existence Is Not Special Pleading When discussing the existence of God, one common objection raised is that the argument for God's existence constitutes "special pleading." This accusation implies that the argument for God’s existence is a double standard, where the existence of God is treated differently from the existence of anything else. However, there are several reasons why God’s existence is not special pleading but rather a valid subject of philosophical inquiry and debate. The Nature of the Argument for God’s Existence Special pleading occurs when one applies a standard or rule to everything except for a particular case without justification. However, the argument for the existence of God is based on a different framework than that used for finite beings or physical objects. The existence of God is a metaphysical question, whereas the existence of finite things is a question of empirical evidence. God, by definition, is the necessary and eternal being whose existence does not depend on anything else, while all created things have contingent existence. The Cosmological Argument One of the most well-known arguments for the existence of God is the cosmological argument, which posits that the universe must have had a cause. The argument suggests that everything in the universe has a cause, but this chain of causes cannot go back infinitely. Therefore, there must be a first cause—God. This argument does not fall under special pleading because it applies the same principle of causality that we use to understand the world, but extends it to the origin of the universe. The cause of the universe, being necessary and uncaused, is distinct from the causes of finite things. The Teleological Argument The teleological argument, or the argument from design, suggests that the order and complexity of the universe point to an intelligent designer. This argument is not special pleading because it uses the same reasoning that we apply when identifying design in human creations, such as buildings or machinery. The complexity of the universe, far beyond anything that humans can create, suggests a purposeful and intelligent creator. In this case, the argument for God’s existence follows the same principles of reasoning used to recognize design in the world, but applied to the cosmos as a whole. The Ontological Argument The ontological argument is another philosophical argument for God’s existence, which asserts that the very concept of a perfect God implies His existence. This argument does not involve special pleading because it is based on logical principles that apply universally. If we can conceive of a perfect being, then that being must exist in reality, because existence is a necessary attribute of perfection. While this argument is debated, it is still a legitimate philosophical argument and is not based on special pleading. Conclusion God’s existence is not special pleading because the arguments for His existence are based on valid philosophical principles that apply universally, whether to the cause of the universe, the design of the cosmos, or the nature of perfection. These arguments provide a rational basis for belief in God, grounded in metaphysical reasoning rather than arbitrary exceptions.

What Protection Is in Psalm 91:11?

What Protection Is in Psalm 91:11? Understanding Psalm 91:11 Psalm 91:11 states, "For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways." This verse highlights a divine promise of protection from God through His angels. It assures believers that they are under constant spiritual care, even when facing dangers. The Nature of the Protection The protection mentioned is both spiritual and physical. It implies that God's angels are assigned to watch over individuals, guarding them from harm, evil, and unseen dangers. This divine guardianship offers peace and confidence, knowing that God's power is actively shielding believers in their daily lives. Key Aspects of This Protection   Divine Assignment: Angels are specifically commanded by God to watch over us.   Constant Vigilance: The protection is continuous, "in all your ways," meaning in every path or situation.   Comprehensive Security: It covers all aspects of life, both seen and unseen threats. The Significance for Believers Today For those who trust in God, Psalm 91:11 offers reassurance that they are never alone. It encourages faith during trials and dangers, reminding believers that God's protection is real and active. Embracing this promise helps cultivate courage and trust in divine care.