These words are found in 1st Corinthians 15:33, where Paul was quoting from “Thais” by Menander, an Athenian poet. It is one of six occasions in the N.T. where a secular author is quoted. The word translated “customs” is elsewhere used in the sense of “ethics” or “morals.” (Greek = Ethos) [Read more…]
Archives for December 1999
51. “The Saviour of Mankind”
“Christians awake, salute the happy morn,
Whereon the Saviour of mankind was born.”
At this time of the year the world goes mad on a spending spree of prodigious proportions, and shop-keepers do all they can to encourage it; after all, it lines their pockets! The amazing thing is that the celebration is (supposed to be) based upon a Child born in a manger in Bethlehem. But for the majority it is celebrated more in keeping with the age-old Saturnalia festivities of ancient Rome. “Eat, drink, and be merry” they say, and everyone seems in festive mood. [Read more…]
50. Resurrection by Judgement
“In the land of beginning again.”
Resurrection by Judgment. (John 5:20)
He came striding along the road, a fine figure of a man, vigorous and healthy, but with eyes betraying a haunting sadness. The other, seated by a wayside pool embowered in brilliant flowers, held up his hand in that gesture of greeting and invitation so familiar in this strange new world. The newcomer halted, hesitated and came across, voicing an easy greeting as he sat down on the grassy bank. [Read more…]
49. Japhah, the Beautiful One
Several times of recent months I have read in American Christian literature a statement like the following – “The very word ‘good’ implies its opposite, and the awareness of one demands the awareness of the other. This is the blackboard effect that is seen all through creation. What is justice without injustice with which to compare it? . . . What is beauty without ugliness? What is light without darkness? What is peace without conflict?” [Read more…]
48. The Unforgivable Sin
Here is a subject that causes fear in the hearts of many a sensitive believer. “Have I ever blasphemed the Holy Spirit?” “What does it mean? How can I know whether I have or not?” It is good to face this problem head on, and find an answer that is wholly scriptural and satisfactory, without any dodge, any wangle, any contrivance, something that one’s spirit knows is right and acceptable in the sight of God. [Read more…]
47. The Pattern and Purpose of the Cherubim
It has long been taught by Bible scholars that the Four Gospels are related to the Four Cherubim in the following way.
Matthew. Jesus presented as King, son of David. The “LION” of Judah.
Mark. Jesus presented as the Ideal Servant of God. The “OX”, servant of man.
Luke. Jesus presented as the Son of Man. The “MAN” representing humanity.
John. Jesus presented as the Son of God. The “EAGLE”, flying in heavenly places. [Read more…]