What Do John 3:16-17 Teach About Salvation?

When God Made You My Mother

When God Made You My Mother Mothers are often seen as the heart of the family, the nurturing figures who embody unconditional love. The Bible speaks highly of mothers, particularly in Proverbs 31:25-28 (KJV), where the virtuous woman is praised: “Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.” This passage paints a picture of a mother who is wise, loving, and devoted to her family. The Divine Creation of Motherhood God's creation of mothers is a beautiful reflection of His nurturing spirit. In Isaiah 66:13 (KJV), God compares Himself to a mother, saying, “As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you.” This verse demonstrates the deep, comforting love that mothers offer, mirroring God's love for His children. When God made you my mother, He chose you to be a vessel of His love, mercy, and grace in my life. The Power of a Mother’s Influence Fathers are not the only ones who have a profound impact on the spiritual development of children. In 2 Timothy 1:5 (KJV), Paul recalls the sincere faith that lived in Timothy’s grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice. This highlights the essential role that mothers play in instilling faith in their children. When God made you my mother, He gave me a teacher of wisdom and love, a model of faith, and a source of strength.

What Does It Mean to Cast Lots in the Bible?

What Does It Mean to Cast Lots in the Bible?In the Bible, casting lots refers to a practice where decisions were made by the random selection of lots, similar to drawing straws or casting dice. This practice was used to determine God’s will in various situations. While it may seem like a mere game of chance, the Bible presents casting lots as a way of trusting in God’s sovereignty and seeking His guidance.Historical and Biblical ContextCasting lots was common in the Old Testament and was often used when making important decisions. For example, in Leviticus 16:8, the high priest cast lots to determine which goat would be sacrificed and which would be the scapegoat. In Joshua 18:10, lots were cast to divide the land among the tribes of Israel. The practice was not random but viewed as a means of discerning God’s will for the people.God’s Sovereignty in Decision MakingProverbs 16:33 says, “The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord.” This verse underscores the belief that, although lots may appear to be based on chance, God is in control of the outcome. In Acts 1:26, the apostles cast lots to choose a replacement for Judas Iscariot, trusting that God would guide the process. Casting lots was an expression of faith that God would lead and direct decisions according to His will.When Not to Use LotsWhile casting lots was used in the Bible, it was not a practice that was intended to replace personal decision-making or prayer. Christians today are encouraged to seek God’s guidance through prayer, the reading of Scripture, and wise counsel rather than relying on chance. The New Testament emphasizes that the Holy Spirit leads believers in making decisions and discerning God’s will (Romans 8:14).ConclusionIn the Bible, casting lots was a way of seeking God’s guidance and trusting in His control over outcomes. While it was a legitimate practice in biblical times, today, Christians are encouraged to seek God’s will through prayer, Scripture, and the Holy Spirit’s leading rather than relying on chance.

How Old Was Jesus When Joseph Died?

How Old Was Jesus When Joseph Died?The Bible does not provide a specific age for Jesus when Joseph, His earthly father, died. However, based on the information available in the Gospels and historical context, many scholars believe that Joseph likely died when Jesus was still in His adolescence or early adulthood. It is generally assumed that Joseph was older than Mary and that he died before Jesus began His public ministry at around age 30.Why the Age of Jesus at Joseph’s Death is UnclearWhile the Bible does not give explicit details about the death of Joseph, there are several clues that help us make educated assumptions. First, Joseph is mentioned in the early chapters of the Gospels—particularly in Matthew and Luke—where he is portrayed as a key figure in protecting and caring for Jesus and Mary. However, after the account of Jesus’ visit to the temple at age 12 (Luke 2:41-50), Joseph is not mentioned again in the Gospel narratives. This absence suggests that Joseph may have passed away sometime between Jesus' childhood and the start of His public ministry.The Absence of Joseph in Jesus’ MinistryThe absence of Joseph in the Gospels during the years of Jesus’ ministry may indicate his death. Jesus’ ministry began when He was about 30 years old, and there is no record of Joseph being alive during this time. In fact, during the crucifixion, when Jesus entrusted Mary to the care of the apostle John, He did so because Joseph was no longer present to care for her (John 19:26-27). This act suggests that Joseph had passed away, leaving Mary a widow.The Role of Joseph in Jesus’ Early LifeJoseph played a critical role in the early life of Jesus. He was a righteous man who obeyed God’s commands, taking Mary as his wife despite her pregnancy by the Holy Spirit. He also protected Jesus from King Herod’s massacre of infants by fleeing to Egypt with Mary and the young Jesus (Matthew 2:13-15). Joseph's devotion to God and his role in the early life of Jesus demonstrate his faithfulness and obedience to God's plan, even though his role in the later years of Jesus' life is not documented.ConclusionThe Bible does not specify the exact age of Jesus when Joseph died, but it is generally believed that Joseph passed away before Jesus began His public ministry. Scholars assume that Jesus was likely in His teens or early twenties at the time. Despite the lack of details, Joseph’s role in Jesus’ early life and his absence during Jesus’ ministry is a reminder of the important role he played in fulfilling God’s plan for the Savior (Matthew 1:18-25, John 19:26-27).

How Do Churches Make Money?

How Do Churches Make Money?Churches typically generate income through donations, offerings, and other revenue streams. These funds support the church’s operations, ministries, and community outreach efforts, ensuring its ability to fulfill spiritual and social responsibilities.Main Sources of Church IncomeTithes and Offerings: Members of the congregation contribute regularly, often giving 10% of their income (a tithe) or additional offerings based on biblical principles (Malachi 3:10).Special Fundraisers: Churches may host events like bake sales, charity auctions, or concerts to raise money for specific causes or projects.Grants and Donations: Some churches receive grants from charitable organizations or philanthropic donations from individuals outside the congregation.Facility Rentals: Churches may rent their facilities for weddings, events, or community activities, generating additional income.Merchandise or Book Sales: Larger churches sometimes sell books, music, or branded merchandise to support their ministries.ConclusionChurches rely on tithes, offerings, fundraisers, and additional revenue streams to sustain their operations, support community outreach, and grow their ministries.