Alexander – Part 1

V LeHistory2 Comments

Alexander the Great needs no introduction. He was a mighty king, a fierce warrior, a determined conqueror, and a legendary figure in history. Presiding over one of the greatest empires in ancient times, he revolutionized the world by introducing Greek culture and language to nations that he subjugated. He defeated the mighty Persian Empire at the Battle of Gaugamela and sought to conquer the known world.

Some believe that the Bible predicted Alexander’s rise (in Daniel 8) long before Alexander existed. As usual, critics and scholars have stepped up and protested that this is impossible – that Daniel 8 was written long after Alexander lived, thus constituting a “prophecy after the fact”.

Men Walking as Trees

V LeJesus Christ, Miracles6 Comments

In Mark 8:22-25, Jesus heals a blind man – twice. Among all four Gospels, this is a unique healing account. But what was going on here? Why was the man unable to perceive objects clearly after Jesus touched him the first time? Did Jesus make a mistake the first time, thus necessitating a second healing?

The Manger in a New Light

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Today, millions of Christians around the world are celebrating Christ’s birth. Plays have been staged, sermons have been preached, and many are gathering to share in the joy and fellowship of the season. But how many Christians will let the day slip by without understanding how tradition has altered parts of the beautiful Nativity story? Might it not be worthwhile to examine what the Bible says about the special day that Jesus was born?

Please note that this article will not ruin your Christmas. On the contrary, it will probably help you look at the miracle of Christmas from a completely new perspective.

Did a Prophet Permit Idol Worship?

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In 2 Kings 5, Naaman, the commander of the Syrian army, is miraculously cured of leprosy after following the instructions of the prophet Elisha. Naaman is overjoyed and returns to Elisha, saying, “Behold, I know that there is no God in all the earth but in Israel” (v. 15). He then begs Elisha to accept a gift, but the prophet characteristically refuses.

Naaman then makes a strange request: “Please let there be given to your servant two mule loads of earth, for from now on your servant will not offer burnt offering or sacrifice to any god but the LORD. In this matter may the LORD pardon your servant: when my master goes into the house of Rimmon to worship there, leaning on my arm, and I bow myself in the house of Rimmon, when I bow myself in the house of Rimmon, the LORD pardon your servant in this matter.” (v. 17-18)

Elisha’s response? “Go in peace” (v. 19).

Wait…did Elisha, a prophet and a man of God, actually permit a man to worship an idol in order to keep his job?

Let Freedom Ring!

V LeLiberty3 Comments

Two weeks ago, Americans at home and abroad celebrated Independence Day. It was on July 4, 1776 that the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, formally establishing the independence of the thirteen American colonies from Great Britain. Since then, fireworks, parades, concerts, barbecues, and family gatherings have been typical of American celebrations commemorating this special day.

But what in the world does any of this have to do with Christianity…or apologetics?

Seven Years a Madman

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In Daniel 4, God proclaims from heaven that King Nebuchadnezzar will be driven from men, dwelling with beasts, and eating grass like an ox for seven years. This is an incredible story, but for some, it is just that – a story. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, “There is no independent support for the tradition in Daniel of Nebuchadnezzar’s seven years’ madness…”

Hold on, Britannica. Let’s look at what history really says.

Did Jesus Ever Claim to Be the Son of God?

V LeJesus Christ8 Comments

Did Jesus ever claim to be the Son of God? This is a point of contention amongst Christians and non-believers alike. It has spawned countless novels, movies, and conspiracy theories. While it is easy to point to one of the writings of Paul or Peter to prove Jesus’ Divinity, some Christians wonder: what did Jesus himself have to say about…well, himself? Would he be content with being remembered as a prophet? A miracle worker? A wise teacher?

Is this a question that we can answer?

Did King David Exist?

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Did you know that many scholars think that King David never existed? That’s right – the courageous shepherd who killed Goliath, fled from King Saul, united Israel under his rule, and conquered Jerusalem is thought by many to have been a total fabrication. Until 1993, the only accounts of David existed in the Bible. He was mentioned in none of the Egyptian, Syrian, or Assyrian documents of the time, and excavations of his city, Jerusalem, yielded no mention of his name.