“Render unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s.” This phrase, from Matthew 22:21, has been used as a proof text of the separation of church and state; where the religious duty ends and the secular authority begins. Read more …

A couple of months ago I was listening to a sermon by someone whom I respect and whose work I appreciate. He is faithful to the Bible and in building up the church. The sermon was on what it is that sets Christians apart from the rest of the world. He drew parallels with how the ancient nation of Israel was to be set apart (Deuteronomy 14:2). They were meant to live in a way which was distinct from their neighbours—metaphorically as well as spiritually—so that they could be a light to the other nations (Exodus 34:10). The laws given through Moses to ancient Israel was not a way to become holy, but to show their holiness (that is, that they are set apart by God to live according to His will). As such, we do not need to fret over individual laws and what they mean; indeed, as an example, in Acts 10 God abolished the dietary laws of the Old Testament!

Except, that He did not. Read more …

In this article in my series on the Bible, I am going to look at how to read the Bible. In particular I am going to focus on two areas: how to read the Bible for the first time, and how to read the Bible in general. Read more …

As we embark on a new calendar year, I want to begin with a series of articles about the Bible: what it is, how to read it, etc. In this first article in the series, I want to give some reasons why you, why anyone—whether Christian or not—should read the Bible. Read more …

In 1 Samuel 13, Saul's dynasty comes to an end when he is judged for making an offering on behalf of the prophet Samuel. With one act, Saul loses favour with God—so much so that Samuel tells Saul that God will replace him with someone "after [God's] own heart". Had Saul obeyed, then today we might have spoken of the house of Saul as we speak of the house of David, for Samuel said that if Saul had obeyed, "the Lord would have established your kingdom on Israel forever". Read more …

I unfortunately have to announce what is probably going to be the first in a long line of delays with the Bible studies. Read more …