There are many place names in the Bible. If we had been born and raised in that part of the world, these names would be like saying Odessa, Laredo, Amarillo,…
They went into the tomb. They knew they would have to. Could you? They were trying to prepare themselves. They see the stone rolled away and don’t know what to…
For quite some time, Christians didn’t need to think very much about their faith and beliefs. Yes, sure, society and culture were fallen, but in impersonal ways that didn’t touch…
Those listening to Jesus “were all well impressed with him and marveled at the eloquent words that he spoke” (4:22). So far, so good. People often marvel at Jesus in…
The section headings that the translators gave these parts of Luke’s account are telling: “Jesus Begins His Work,” and “Jesus is Rejected.” Here is an encapsulation of what we’ll be…
Wise men. Scripture tells us they are (2:1, NRSV, ESV, RSV). What made them wise? What do we know about them? We know they studied the stars. Why? I mean,…
Though you are small, I will bring forth great things from you (5:2). This is what God is saying. Encouragement for Bethlehem. Encouragement for Bethel. Words of encouragement for every…
We hear this list of names at the beginning of this third chapter of Luke’s account, and we probably don’t think much about it. There are so many lists of…
John the Baptist, or Elijah, or one of the prophets—that’s pretty good company. Have you ever asked someone who he or she thinks Jesus is? That could lead to some…
There are places in the Bible where I read and say, “no, no, that’s too much!” Too hard. I feel like closing the book, right there; I don’t want to…