How Old Is the Ethiopian Bible?

What Commands Did Jesus Give Before Leaving His Disciples?

What Commands Did Jesus Give Before Leaving His Disciples?Before ascending to heaven, Jesus gave several important commands to His disciples, providing guidance for their mission and life as His followers. These commands are recorded in passages like Matthew 28:19-20, known as the Great Commission: "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you."The Great CommissionJesus instructed His disciples to spread the Gospel, baptize believers, and teach them to follow His commandments. This mission underscores the universal scope of His message and the importance of making disciples worldwide.Other Key CommandsLove One Another: In John 13:34, Jesus said, "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you."Wait for the Holy Spirit: In Acts 1:4-5, Jesus told them to stay in Jerusalem until they received the Holy Spirit, empowering them for their mission.Why These Commands MatterThese instructions shaped the early church and continue to guide Christians in spreading the Gospel, showing love, and living faithfully.

Do Jews Believe in Hell?

Do Jews Believe in Hell?Jews generally do not believe in hell as understood in Christian theology. Instead, Jewish teachings describe Gehenna, a temporary state of purification for souls before they move on to Olam HaBa (the World to Come). The concept emphasizes refinement rather than eternal punishment.Key Aspects of GehennaTemporary State: Gehenna is not eternal. Most Jewish traditions teach that souls remain there for a maximum of 12 months, undergoing spiritual cleansing.Purpose of Purification: Gehenna serves to prepare the soul for its eventual place in the afterlife, allowing individuals to atone for sins and enter the presence of God.Judgment and Mercy: God’s judgment is balanced with mercy in Judaism, emphasizing repentance and redemption over retribution.Focus on This LifeJudaism places more importance on ethical living and fulfilling mitzvot (commandments) in this life than speculating about the afterlife. The specifics of Gehenna are less detailed and less emphasized than in Christianity or Islam.ConclusionJews do not believe in hell as a place of eternal torment but in Gehenna as a temporary state of spiritual purification. Jewish teachings focus on living a righteous life and trusting in God’s justice and mercy.

What Does Psalm 121:1-2 Say About Help?

What Does Psalm 121:1-2 Say About Help? Introduction to Psalm 121:1-2 Psalm 121:1-2 is a powerful and uplifting scripture that speaks directly about seeking help and finding assurance in divine protection. These verses emphasize the source of help and the confidence believers can have when they turn their eyes towards God. Text and Meaning of Psalm 121:1-2 The verses state: "I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from?" "My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." This passage highlights two main ideas: the act of looking upward in search of help, and the recognition that true help originates from the Lord, who is the Creator of everything. Seeking Help: A Spiritual Action The psalmist’s lifting of eyes symbolizes a deliberate seeking of assistance beyond human means. It reflects a spiritual posture of trust and dependence on God rather than on worldly sources. The Source of Help: God the Creator By identifying God as "the Maker of heaven and earth," the verses affirm His supreme power and authority. This reassures believers that help from such a mighty Creator is reliable, steadfast, and sufficient for all challenges. Conclusion Psalm 121:1-2 teaches that help is not found in earthly places but in the Lord alone. It encourages believers to look beyond their circumstances and trust in God’s powerful and loving provision.

Where Does the Bible Say?

Where Does the Bible Say? The Bible is a collection of texts that reveal God's will for humanity. Many questions arise regarding the teachings found within it. When asking, "Where does the Bible say...?" it's important to consider the context, because scripture may reference certain truths through narrative, prophecy, or commands. For instance, in John 14:6 (KJV), Jesus says, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me,” emphasizing the path to salvation through Christ. Understanding Biblical Context It’s vital to approach Bible study with an understanding that verses must be read in their context. For example, Romans 8:28 (KJV) tells us, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” While this verse promises God's sovereignty, it must be seen in the broader picture of God's redemptive plan, which unfolds across scripture. Using Bible Study Tools To discover where a certain concept or truth is found, one can use tools like a concordance or online Bible searches. A concordance lists where specific words are mentioned in scripture, making it easier to find references related to your question. For example, if you're asking, "Where does the Bible say salvation is through grace?" you can easily locate passages like Ephesians 2:8-9 (KJV), which states, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” In short, asking "Where does the Bible say?" invites us into a deeper study of the sacred text. Whether it's a direct command, a principle, or a prophetic statement, the Bible is rich with divine truth, and discovering those truths requires both seeking and understanding.