How to Explain the Trinity to a New Believer

When Is Ash Wednesday?

When Is Ash Wednesday? Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent in Western Christianity, observed forty-six days before Easter Sunday (including six Sundays). It calls believers to repentance and spiritual renewal. Determining the Date Count back six weeks plus four days from Easter Sunday. For example, if Easter is April 20, 2025, Ash Wednesday falls on February 26, 2025. Liturgical Practice Imposition of Ashes: Worshippers receive a cross of ashes with words like “Remember you are dust.” Scripture Readings: Passages from Joel 2 and Matthew 6 emphasize true repentance and humility. Purpose Ash Wednesday reminds us of our mortality and God’s mercy. By fasting, prayer, and almsgiving, we prepare our hearts for Holy Week and the joy of resurrection.

What Does the Bible Say About Eclipse?

What Does the Bible Say About Eclipse?Eclipses are not specifically mentioned in the Bible as a regular event or phenomenon, but there are instances where celestial occurrences are used to signal important events or as signs from God. One of the most notable references to an eclipse in the Bible occurs during the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.Darkness at the CrucifixionIn Matthew 27:45, it is written, "Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour." This event, occurring during Jesus' crucifixion, is often interpreted as a supernatural darkness, possibly resembling an eclipse, as a sign of God's judgment and the weight of the sins being atoned for through Jesus’ sacrifice. It serves as a powerful symbol of the significance of Christ’s death.Signs and Wonders in ScriptureThe Bible often associates celestial phenomena like eclipses with signs and wonders, indicating God's presence or intervention. In the Old Testament, the sun was darkened during significant events, such as in the book of Amos. Amos 8:9 states, "And it shall come to pass in that day, saith the Lord GOD, that I will cause the sun to go down at noon, and I will darken the earth in the clear day." These signs are often seen as indicating God's authority over the natural world and His sovereignty in moments of crisis or judgment.ConclusionWhile the Bible does not directly mention eclipses as a common event, it does describe instances of darkness or celestial signs as part of God's communication with His people. The darkness during Jesus' crucifixion serves as a powerful reminder of the weight of sin and the profound significance of Christ’s atoning work.

Why Did Jesus Fast for 40 Days?

Why Did Jesus Fast for 40 Days? Jesus’ 40-day fast in the wilderness is a key event in the Gospels, recorded in Matthew 4:1-11, Mark 1:12-13, and Luke 4:1-13. But why did Jesus, the Son of God, choose to fast for such a long period of time? What was the purpose of this fasting, and what can we learn from it? Jesus’ fast in the wilderness serves as an example of spiritual discipline, preparation, and victory over temptation. Preparation for Ministry One of the primary reasons Jesus fasted for 40 days was to prepare for His ministry. Before beginning His public work, Jesus needed to be spiritually equipped and strengthened. Fasting, combined with prayer, is a means of drawing closer to God and seeking His guidance. Jesus' fast demonstrated His complete dependence on God the Father and His commitment to His mission. Through this time of fasting, Jesus was ready to face the challenges that lay ahead in His ministry. Victory Over Temptation During His 40-day fast, Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness. The devil tried to tempt Jesus with physical desires (turning stones into bread), power (offering all the kingdoms of the world), and pride (testing God’s protection). However, Jesus resisted each temptation by responding with Scripture (Matthew 4:1-11). His fast was not only a time of physical discipline but also a time of spiritual warfare. Jesus’ victory over temptation demonstrated His sinlessness and His power to overcome evil. His example shows believers that, through dependence on God and the Word of God, we can resist temptation in our own lives. Spiritual Example for Believers Jesus' fast also serves as an example for believers today. In Matthew 6:16-18, Jesus teaches about fasting, encouraging His followers to fast in a way that honors God, not for the praise of men. Fasting is a spiritual discipline that helps believers draw closer to God, seek His will, and humble themselves before Him. Just as Jesus fasted to prepare for His ministry, believers are encouraged to fast to seek God’s guidance and strength in their own lives. Conclusion Jesus fasted for 40 days to prepare for His ministry, to overcome temptation, and to set an example for His followers. His time of fasting demonstrated His dependence on God, His victory over evil, and His commitment to His mission. For believers, Jesus’ fast is a reminder of the importance of spiritual discipline and reliance on God’s Word to overcome the challenges and temptations of life.

What Is Genesis Chapter 2 About?

What Is Genesis Chapter 2 About? Genesis 2 zooms in on the creation of humanity and the setting of the first garden. Unlike chapter 1’s cosmic overview, it provides intimate details about how God formed man, established Eden, and instituted marriage. Creation of Man and Woman God molds Adam from dust and breathes life into him (Gen 2:7). Observing Adam’s aloneness, God fashions animals and birds, then creates Eve from Adam’s rib (Gen 2:18–22), establishing the first human companionship. The Garden of Eden Location and Provision: Planted “eastward in Eden” with trees “pleasant to the sight” and the Tree of Life (Gen 2:8–9). Work and Rest: Adam is assigned to “dress and keep” the garden (Gen 2:15), introducing labor as a divine calling. Marriage Instituted God declares it “not good” for man to be alone and ordains “one flesh” union (vv. 18–24). This passage undergirds marriage’s design: lifelong, exclusive partnership.