Author: Reverend Michael Johnson

Discernment of good and evil refers to the ability to distinguish right from wrong, which is often emphasized in biblical teachings as a gift from God. It is illustrated in Hebrews 5:14, where mature believers are described as having their senses trained to discern good and evil through practice. Scripture 12 For though by this…

The Didache, also known as “The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles,” is an early Christian text that provides instructions on ethics, rituals, and church practices. It is not part of the canonical Bible but is considered an important historical document that reflects the beliefs and practices of the early Christian community. Scripture 18 And Jesus…

In the Bible, a “young man” often signifies a stage of life associated with strength, vitality, and potential. Young men are frequently depicted as leaders, warriors, or learners, illustrating the importance of youth in serving God and pursuing wisdom (e.g., Proverbs 20:29, 1 Timothy 4:12). Scripture 33 And Saul said to David, “You are not…

In the Bible, “appropriate” often relates to the idea of taking something for oneself, which can have a positive or negative connotation depending on the context, such as appropriating God’s blessings or misappropriating resources. It emphasizes the proper use of resources and actions in alignment with God’s will and intentions. Scripture 11 A word fitly…

In the Bible, the phrase “keepers at home” refers to women, particularly in Titus 2:5, who are responsible for managing their households and caring for their families. This role emphasizes the importance of domestic duties and nurturing within the family structure in a biblical context. Scripture 3 Older women likewise are to be reverent in…

The phrase “tickling ears” in the Bible refers to the desire for teachings that are pleasing and flattering, rather than those that convey truth or conviction. It is often associated with false prophets or teachings that divert from sound doctrine, as seen in 2 Timothy 4:3-4, where people seek messages that cater to their desires…

In the Bible, “forgive us our trespasses” refers to the request for God’s mercy and pardon for our sins and wrongdoings, as articulated in the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:12). It signifies recognition of human fallibility and the need for divine grace to restore our relationship with God and others. Scripture 9 Pray then like this:…

The phrase “let your yes be yes” comes from Matthew 5:37, where it emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in one’s commitments. It encourages believers to be straightforward and truthful in their words, ensuring that their affirmations or denials are clear and trustworthy. Scripture 33 “Again you have heard that it was said to…

Lower criticism, also known as textual criticism, is the scholarly study of manuscripts and textual variants of the Bible to ascertain the most accurate wording of the text. It involves analyzing differences in manuscripts to reconstruct the original texts as closely as possible. Scripture 16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for…

Child dedication in the Bible refers to the honoring of a child by presenting them to God, recognizing their life as a gift from Him. This practice, as exemplified in passages like 1 Samuel 1:27-28, symbolizes a parent’s commitment to raise the child in a way that honors God and acknowledges His sovereignty. Scripture 21…