Danny’s Thoughts, Reviews, and Musings

Danny Price 12/18/25 Danny Price 12/18/25

Week #3 - What Jewish Festival Season Was Yeshua (Jesus) Born In?

Blog Series Intention Recap

The Questions of Christmas series invites us to slow down and look at the Christmas story with fresh eyes. We begin by seeing how Matthew, Luke, and the Old Testament fit together to tell one true story about Yeshua (Jesus)—Israel’s King and our Savior. Then we explore how Hanukkah’s themes of light and God’s faithfulness shape the world Yeshua (Jesus) was born into. We also look at why many scholars believe Yeshua (Jesus) was likely born during the Feast of Tabernacles, when God came to dwell with His people. Finally, we discover who the magi really were and how their long journey shows that the nations have always been drawn to Israel’s Messiah.

This page is a post in the series “The Questions of Christmas.” Click here to see the rest of the posts.

Let’s jump into Week #3:

Was Yeshua (Jesus) really born in December?… This post is purely my thought process. As a kid, I struggled with the fact that Yeshua (Jesus) was probably not born on December 25. We don’t have Yeshua’s birth certificate. However, I think some clues in the Bible’s own timing point us in a different direction. When we follow Luke’s timeline and Zechariah’s priestly service, everything lines up with the fall festivals—especially the Feast of Tabernacles, or Sukkot. That feast celebrates God choosing to live right in the middle of His people, even in something as temporary and straightforward as a little booth. When we place Yeshua’s (Jesus) birth in that season, it highlights the heart of the incarnation: God stepped into our world to dwell with us.

Why it Matters:

The Bible gives timing clues for Yeshua’s (Jesus) birth by tracing the priestly service of Zechariah.
These clues suggest Yeshua’s (Jesus) birth landed during a feast season, likely Sukkot.
Sukkot’s themes—joy, God’s presence, and God dwelling with His people—fit the meaning of the incarnation.
Understanding the likely timing strengthens our confidence in Scripture and deepens our worship at Christmas.

Go Deeper:

Just a subject for Bible Nerds?

Many believers wonder whether Yeshua’s (Jesus) birth happened on December 25. Does it really matter? The Bible does not give a date, but it does provide clues—and those clues point toward a specific season on the Jewish calendar. Understanding that the season does not change the gospel but reveals to us the brilliance of God’s planning. It reminds us that God acts in history with purpose, precision, and meaning.

The Jewish festivals were not random holidays. God used the calendar for teaching His people about the Messiah. Every feast points forward to some part of His redemptive plan. If Yeshua (Jesus) was born during Sukkot, the Feast of Tabernacles, then the timing of His birth carries a message: God Himself came to dwell with us.

This week, we explore those clues and their meaning for the incarnation.

The Biblical Clues Start with Zechariah

Clue 1: Understanding the priestly divisions

Luke tells us that Zechariah—the father of John the Baptist—was serving in the Temple when an angel appeared to him:

“In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah.”
(Luke 1:5, ESV)

To find the timing of John’s conception, we need to understand the priestly schedule. According to 1 Chronicles 24, the priests were divided into 24 groups (or “courses”), each serving for one week twice a year, plus festival weeks.

The division of Abijah typically served in early summer.

This provides our first anchor point.

Clue 2: John the Baptist’s conception

Luke tells us:

“After his days of service were ended, he went to his home… Elizabeth conceived.”
(Luke 1:23–24, ESV)

If Zechariah served in the Temple around late May or early June, then John was conceived shortly after that point.

Clue 3: Six months later: the angel visits Mary

Luke also tells us:

“In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent… to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph.”
(Luke 1:26–27, ESV)

This “sixth month” refers to Elizabeth’s pregnancy.

If Elizabeth conceived in early summer, then six months later, would put the announcement to Mary in December or January.

Mary conceives by the Holy Spirit shortly after.

Clue 4: Nine months after that: the birth of Yeshua (Jesus)

If Yeshua (Jesus) were conceived in the winter, then His birth would land in September or October—the time of Sukkot, the Feast of Tabernacles.

While this reasoning is somewhat guesswork, it aligns with the timing Luke gives.

Why Sukkot Fits the Birth of Yeshua (Jesus)

First, Sukkot is a feast of joy

Sukkot is one of the most joyful feasts in Israel:

“You shall rejoice before the LORD your God seven days.”
(Leviticus 23:40, ESV)

In fact, Jewish tradition calls it “the Season of Our Joy.”

Luke describes Yeshua’s (Jesus) birth with the same theme:

“I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.”
(Luke 2:10, ESV)

A feast centered on joy fits the arrival of the Messiah.

Second, Sukkot celebrates God dwelling with His people

The central symbol of Sukkot is the sukkah—a temporary shelter that reminds Israel of their wilderness journey, when God’s presence dwelt among them.

John uses this same idea:

“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.”
(John 1:14, ESV)

“Dwelt” literally means tabernacled.
John uses Sukkot language on purpose.

Third, Sukkot is associated with the coming of the Messianic Kingdom

The prophets describe a future time when all nations will come to Jerusalem to worship the King:

“…everyone who survives… shall go up year after year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the Feast of Booths.”
(Zechariah 14:16, ESV)

Sukkot has always had a messianic hope woven into it.

Yeshua’s (Jesus) birth during Sukkot aligns with this prophetic expectation.

Finally, Jerusalem would have been crowded—perfect for Luke’s description

Sukkot was one of three pilgrimage feasts. Jews from across the region traveled to Jerusalem. The nearby town of Bethlehem—only a short distance away—would have been overflowing.

“No room in the inn” makes historical sense during a major feast.

Other Clues that Support a Sukkot Birth

Clue 1: The shepherds in the fields

Luke writes:

“There were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.”
(Luke 2:8, ESV)

Shepherds do not remain in open fields during the cold, rainy winter months. However, they do so in early fall—around September/October.

This aligns with Sukkot.

Clue 2: The symbolism of the light ceremony

During Sukkot, one of the central rituals in the Second Temple was the illumination of the Court of Women with enormous oil lamps. These lights were visible across Jerusalem, symbolizing God’s presence.

When Yeshua (Jesus) later says:

“I am the light of the world.”
(John 8:12, ESV)

He speaks during the season when Israel celebrated God’s light dwelling among them.

If He was born during Sukkot, this light imagery becomes even stronger.

Clue 3: The water-pouring ceremony

Another central Sukkot ritual was the water-drawing ceremony (Simchat Beit HaShoevah), where priests poured water at the altar, symbolizing God’s provision and the outpouring of His Spirit.

In another moment, Yeshua (Jesus) cries out:

“If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.”
(John 7:37, ESV)

This also happens during Sukkot. Yeshua (Jesus) ties His identity to the feast.

What about December 25th?

First, the church never claimed December 25 as Yeshua’s (Jesus) actual birth date.

The early church did not choose December 25 because they believed Yeshua (Jesus) was born then. They picked it for symbolic reasons (as explained in Week 2).

Second, the Bible does not claim December 25.

There is no conflict between honoring the incarnation on December 25 and understanding Yeshua (Jesus) was likely born in a different season.

Finally, the meaning matters more than the calendar date

The central truth is the incarnation itself: God's entry into human history.

Why Sukkot Makes The Incarnation Even Richer

“God with us” emerges as a visible theme. Matthew writes:

“…and they shall call his name Immanuel (which means, God with us).”
(Matthew 1:23, ESV)

Sukkot celebrates God’s presence dwelling with Israel. Yeshua (Jesus) embodies that presence.

Also, the birth of Yeshua (Jesus) fulfills the symbolism of temporary shelters. The sukkah is a fragile, temporary structure. It reminds Israel that human life is temporary, fragile, and dependent.

Yeshua (Jesus) entered a fragile world, taking on human flesh. He “tabernacled” among us not in power, but in humility.

Finally, the incarnation points toward the future Messianic kingdom. Sukkot is the feast of the Messianic Kingdom—when God’s presence fills the earth. Yeshua’s (Jesus) birth during Sukkot points forward to the final tabernacle:

“Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man.”
(Revelation 21:3, ESV)

The incarnation is the beginning of that promise.

One Possible Timeline Summary

Sukkot highlights joy, and Christmas is a season of joy. Joy is not a side theme of Christmas; it is the heart of it. If Yeshua (Jesus) was born during the “Season of Our Joy,” then Christmas becomes even more meaningful.

Here is a simple summary of the biblical reasoning:

Zechariah serves during Abijah’s priestly course (early summer).
Elizabeth conceives shortly after.
Mary conceives Yeshua (Jesus) six months later (winter).
Yeshua (Jesus) is born about nine months after that (early fall).
Sukkot occurs in early fall (September/October).

The clues line up with Sukkot—not December.

How does this help me understand the concept of “The Questions of Christmas?”

Why does this matter for our celebration of Christmas?

It shows God’s precision in fulfilling His promises.

God does not act randomly. He fulfills prophecy and festival imagery with purpose and beauty.

It ties Yeshua (Jesus) deeply to Israel’s story.

The incarnation is not detached from the Old Testament. It is the fulfillment of it.

It strengthens our understanding of Scripture.

Recognizing how the biblical clues align reminds us that Scripture—from Torah to the Gospels—is one unified story.

It enriches our worship.

Whether we celebrate in December or reflect on the timing, the truth remains:
God came to dwell with us.

It confirms Yeshua (Jesus) as the Messiah

Using Israel’s feasts as prophetic signposts, Yeshua (Jesus) fulfills every part of God’s plan.

The Feast of God Dwelling with Us

The Bible does not provide a date for Yeshua’s (Jesus) birth, but it does give a season, a pattern, and a message. All the clues point to a birth during Sukkot, the Feast of Tabernacles—a celebration of God dwelling with His people.

This timing is not accidental. It is part of God’s larger story:

God preserved His people (Hanukkah).
God promised His Messiah (the Prophets).
God sent His Son to dwell with us (Sukkot).

When Yeshua (Jesus) was born, God pitched His tent among us. He entered our world, our weakness, and our darkness. The incarnation is the true tabernacle—the moment heaven touched earth.

Sukkot celebrates God’s presence. Christmas celebrates God’s arrival.
Together they sing one song: “God is with us—Immanuel.”

Danny Price 12/11/25 Danny Price 12/11/25

Week #2 - How Does Hanukkah connect with Christmas?

Blog Series Intention Recap

This page is a post in the series “The Questions of Christmas.” Click here to see the rest of the posts.

Let’s jump into Week #2:

Hanukkah and Christmas are not the same holiday, but they meet at a powerful point: God keeps His promises, preserves His people, and brings light into the darkness. Hanukkah prepares the world into which Yeshua (Jesus)—the Light of the World—was born.

Most Christians know Christmas well: the birth of Yeshua (Jesus), the manger, the shepherds, the angels, the joy of the incarnation. But fewer understand Hanukkah, the Jewish festival that appears in the background of Yeshua’s (Jesus) ministry and shapes the world He entered.

Why it Matters:

Hanukkah remembers God’s preservation of Israel when their faith was under attack.
Its themes of light, dedication, and temple cleansing set the stage for Yeshua’s (Jesus) mission.
Yeshua (Jesus) celebrated Hanukkah and used it to reveal His identity.
Seeing Hanukkah next to Christmas strengthens our understanding of the Messiah’s coming.

Go Deeper:

Two Holidays, One Story of God’s Faithfulness

Hanukkah commemorates a time when God preserved His people amid great darkness. Christmas celebrates when God sent His Son into that same darkness. One holiday looks back to God’s saving acts. The other reveals the fullness of those acts in the person of Yeshua (Jesus) the Messiah.

To understand Yeshua’s (Jesus) birth more fully, we need to understand Hanukkah’s history, meaning, and message for both Israel and the nations.

The Story Behind Hanukkah: When Faith was Under Attack

1. The world between the Testaments

After the prophet Malachi, there are about 400 years before Yeshua (Jesus) was born. This period is often called the “intertestamental” era. Though Scripture is silent, God was not inactive. Empires rose and fell—Persia, Greece, and eventually Rome.

When Alexander the Great conquered the world, Greek culture spread everywhere. This “Hellenization” pressured the Jewish people to abandon their faith, language, and identity.

2. Antiochus IV: the king who tried to erase Israel

Around 167 BC, a cruel Greek ruler named Antiochus Epiphanes tried to destroy Jewish worship. He outlawed:

Sabbath observance
Temple sacrifice
Circumcision
Reading the Torah

He forced Jewish people to eat pork and worship Greek gods. He defiled the Temple by sacrificing a pig on the altar and setting up an idol to Zeus. This was more than oppression—it was an attempt to erase God’s covenant people from history.

3. The Maccabean revolt: God works through faithful people

A priestly family—the Maccabees—refused to bow. They led a revolt to reclaim Jerusalem. Though they were outnumbered and outmatched, God gave them victory. After three years of battle, they entered the Temple, tore down the pagan altar, rebuilt the holy altar, and rededicated the House of God.

This rededication is the source of the name Hanukkah, which means “dedication”.

4. The miracle of the oil

Jewish tradition says that when the Maccabees entered the Temple, they found only enough oil to light the menorah for one day. But God sustained it for eight days until new oil was ready. This is why Hanukkah lasts eight nights.

Whether one emphasizes the miracle or the military victory, the message of Hanukkah is clear: God preserves His people and their worship.

What Hanukkah meant for Yeshua’s (Jesus) World

1. Hanukkah restored the Temple where Yeshua (Jesus) would later teach

The Temple that the Maccabees purified is the same Temple where:

Yeshua (Jesus) was dedicated as a baby (Luke 2:22–38)
Yeshua (Jesus) taught as a rabbi (John 7–10)
Yeshua (Jesus) confronted religious leaders (Matthew 21–23)
Yeshua (Jesus) announced His identity (John 10)

If Antiochus had succeeded, there would have been no Jewish people, no Temple, and no preserved line of David. Hanukkah is one of the reasons the world was ready for Messiah.

2. Hanukkah kept alive the hope of the coming King

Oppression made Israel long even more deeply for the Messiah who would:

Cleanse the Temple
Overthrow wicked rulers
Restore God’s kingdom
Bring true light

By the time Yeshua (Jesus) was born, Israel was ready—aching—for deliverance.

3. Hanukkah deepened the longing for light

Darkness was not just political. It was spiritual. The Scriptures often describe salvation as light breaking into darkness:

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.”
(Isaiah 9:2, ESV)

“The LORD is my light and my salvation.”
(Psalm 27:1, ESV)

Hanukkah kept this imagery alive for generations.

So when Yeshua (Jesus) said:

“I am the light of the world.”
(John 8:12, ESV)

His listeners heard it in the glow of Hanukkah lamps.

Yeshua (Jesus) Celebrated Hanukkah (And Made A Claim during It)

1. Yeshua (Jesus) goes to Jerusalem during Hanukkah

John 10 records:

“At that time the Feast of Dedication took place at Jerusalem. It was winter… And Yeshua (Jesus) was walking in the temple.”
(John 10:22–23, ESV)

The Feast of Dedication is Hanukkah. Yeshua (Jesus) is there, in the Temple that the Maccabees reclaimed, teaching about His identity.

2. Yeshua (Jesus) uses Hanukkah themes to explain who He is

During Hanukkah, people remembered:

Light overcoming darkness
Truth overcoming lies
A faithful remnant overcoming an evil king
The Temple being cleansed
God’s presence returning

Right in that setting, Yeshua (Jesus) says:

“I and the Father are one.”
(John 10:30, ESV)

This is not a coincidence. Yeshua (Jesus) uses Hanukkah to reveal His unity with the Father.

3. The leaders understood exactly what He meant

The Jewish leaders pick up stones to kill Him—not because they misunderstand, but because they understood His claim to deity:

“You, being a man, make yourself God.”
(John 10:33, ESV)

Hanukkah is not just a backdrop. It is the context in which Yeshua (Jesus) announces that He is the true, eternal Shepherd of Israel—the very One the Maccabees fought to honor.

How Does Hanukkah Connect with Christmas

Hanukkah doesn’t connect on the surface. Hanukkah is a Jewish festival, but it doesn’t have Old Testament significance. Hanukkah’s timing is tied to the historical event. The rededication of the Temple took place on the 25th of Kislev in 164 BC, after the Maccabees defeated Antiochus.
Jews kept the celebration on the same Hebrew date every year.

December is the usual overlap. Most years, the celebration falls somewhere between late November and late December, making Hanukkah a “winter holiday” and often overlapping with the Christmas season. So what can we see in both holidays.

1. Both holidays highlight God’s faithfulness

Hanukkah shows God keeping His covenant by preserving Israel. Christmas shows God keeping His covenant by sending His Son.

In both, God is faithful to His promises.

2. Both holidays celebrate God bringing light into darkness

Hanukkah lights remind us of God’s sustaining power. Christmas lights remind us of the Light of the World.

When you put the two together, the message is clear:
God shines light in every kind of darkness—political, spiritual, internal.

3. Both holidays show God’s heart for His people

Hanukkah shows God does not abandon Israel. Christmas shows God comes near to save.

In Yeshua (Jesus), the Light came not just to restore a Temple, but to redeem humanity itself.

4. Hanukkah helps Christians understand the world Yeshua (Jesus) was born into

Without Hanukkah:

There would be no Jewish Temple for Yeshua (Jesus) to enter.
There would be no intact Jewish identity.
The Davidic line might not survive.
The faithful remnant might disappear.

God preserved Israel so that the Messiah could come from Israel.

5. Hanukkah sets up the nativity

Think of it this way:

Hanukkah: God preserves His people.
Christmas: God comes to His people.

Hanukkah is the shield.
Christmas is the Savior.

They are different events, but one story.

A Closer Look at Yeshua (Jesus) as the Light of the World

1. Light is a major theme in the prophets

The prophets promise a coming King whose glory shines like light:

“Arise, shine, for your light has come.”
(Isaiah 60:1, ESV)

“The LORD will be your everlasting light.”
(Isaiah 60:19, ESV)

These prophecies echo during Hanukkah.

2. Yeshua (Jesus) fulfills the longing for light

Yeshua (Jesus) says:

“I am the light of the world.”
(John 8:12, ESV)

This aligns with Hanukkah’s central symbol. The menorah in the Temple always pointed to God’s presence. Yeshua (Jesus) is the ultimate presence of God among His people.

3. Light reveals truth, exposes sin, and brings hope

When Yeshua (Jesus) enters the world:

He reveals the truth about God.
He exposes darkness in the human heart.
He brings hope to all nations.

This is why the angels say:

“Glory to God in the highest… peace among those with whom he is pleased!”
(Luke 2:14, ESV)

The birth of Yeshua (Jesus) is the true light shining, not for eight days, but forever.

How does this help me understand the concept of “The Questions of Christmas?”

Two Lights, One Story of Redemption

Hanukkah and Christmas come from different parts of history, but they point to the same faithful God. Hanukkah reminds us that God preserves His people no matter the darkness around them. Christmas announces that the Light has come into the world to save us all.

When we understand Hanukkah, we see Christmas with deeper clarity. Yeshua (Jesus), the Light of the World, stepped into a world God had protected—through war, empire, and oppression—so that the Messiah, promised in Scripture, would come exactly as God said.

The Light has come. And the darkness has not overcome Him (John 1:5).

Why Should Christians Care About Hanukkah?

1. Hanukkah protects the story of Christmas

If God had not preserved Israel, the Messiah could not come as promised. Hanukkah kept the lineage, the Temple, and the Scriptures intact.

2. Hanukkah enriches our understanding of Yeshua (Jesus)

We see Yeshua (Jesus) not as a figure floating in history, but as Israel’s Messiah who enters a story filled with struggle, hope, and promise.

3. Hanukkah shows God’s love for the Jewish people

God fights for His people. He preserves them. He keeps His promises. This matters today, not just historically.

4. Hanukkah strengthens our worship at Christmas

When we see what God protected, we appreciate even more what God provided.

Christmas is the gift.
Hanukkah is the preparation.

Hanukkah and Christmas may come from different moments in history, but together they tell one story of a faithful God who protects His people and brings light into the darkness. Hanukkah reminds us that God preserved Israel, guarded the Temple, and kept alive the hope of the coming Messiah. Christmas celebrates the moment that hope took on flesh and dwelt among us. When we see these two holidays side by side, we recognize that the Light of the World entered a world God Himself had already prepared and protected. In both celebrations, we hear the same message: God keeps His promises, God fights for His people, and God’s light still shines in the darkness.

Danny Price 12/4/25 Danny Price 12/4/25

Week #1 - How Do the Gospels of Matthew and Luke Connect With The Old Testament?

Blog Series Intention Recap

This page is a post in the series “The Questions of Christmas.” Click here to see the rest of the posts.

Let’s jump into Week #1:

One story, two different sets of eyes… Matthew and Luke are telling the same Christmas story, just from different seats in the room, and both lean on the Old Testament to show that Jesus really is Israel’s promised Messiah. Matthew highlights Jesus as the true King in David’s line, while Luke shows how His birth brings God’s salvation and joy to every kind of person. Their perspectives don’t compete—they complete each other—and together they give us a fuller picture of Jesus’s early life. Both writers remind us that God kept every promise He made, from the virgin birth to the line of Abraham to the prophecies spoken centuries before. When we hold their accounts side by side, Christmas becomes a bright reminder of God’s faithfulness and the hope we have in our Savior.

Why it Matters:

Matthew writes to show Jesus as the Messiah promised to David and Abraham.
Luke writes to show Jesus as the Savior whose birth brings joy to all people.
The Old Testament prophecies give the backbone of both accounts.
Seeing the unity strengthens our confidence in the incarnation.

Go Deeper:

ONE STORY, TWO WINDOWS

Every December, we read the Christmas story. But often, we read Matthew’s and Luke’s accounts as if they were separate. The stories feel different. Matthew discusses Joseph, the Magi, Herod, and the flight to Egypt. Luke talks about Mary, the shepherds, Zechariah, and the songs of praise that fill the Temple.

Some of us wonder:

“Why do the stories not sound the same?”
“Did Matthew and Luke disagree?”
“Which one is right?”
“Why does the Old Testament matter for Christmas at all?”

The answer is simple and essential: Matthew and Luke tell the same story from different angles, but both rely on the same promises. Christmas is not two stories. Christmas presents a unified story of Scripture’s final confirmation that the God of Israel keeps His covenant.

To understand Christmas, you have to understand both gospel writers and the entire Old Testament standing behind them.

Why did Matthew tell the story as he did?

1. Matthew writes to show Yeshua (Jesus) is the promised King of Israel.

Matthew opens his Gospel with a genealogy. Matthew 1 often seems like just a list of names, and it often feels like God is just trying to bore the reader. This list is a story in a single paragraph. Matthew writes:

“The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham”
(Matthew 1:1, ESV)

Matthew was writing a mission statement.

Son of Abraham: Yeshua (Jesus) is the One who brings the blessing promised in Genesis 12:3.
Son of David: Yeshua (Jesus) is the King promised in 2 Samuel 7:12–16.
Jesus Christ: the Messiah—HaMashiach, the Anointed One.

Matthew is showing his Jewish readers that the story they have hoped for has arrived.

2. Matthew tells the story through Joseph’s eyes.

Matthew brings Joseph to the center, not because Mary is unimportant. Matthew focuses on Joseph’s legal authority, placing Yeshua (Jesus) in David’s royal line. Adoption gives Yeshua (Jesus) the legal right to David’s throne.

Joseph’s role answers the question: “Is Jesus truly the Davidic King?”

Matthew’s answer: Yes. Without Joseph, Jesus would not stand legally in the royal line.

3. Matthew highlights prophecy at every turn.

Matthew repeats a pattern throughout chapters 1–2:

“All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet…”
(Matthew 1:22, ESV)

He quotes Isaiah, Micah, Hosea, and Jeremiah. Why?
Because Matthew wants the reader to see that Jesus does not appear from nowhere. His standing rests on the foundation of Scripture.

Here are some key Old Testament promises Matthew highlights:

Virgin birth — Isaiah 7:14
Birth in Bethlehem — Micah 5:2
Exile imagery — Hosea 11:1
Weeping over lost children — Jeremiah 31:15

To Matthew, the entire story of Israel funnels into the birth of the Messiah - Yeshua (Jesus).

4. Matthew tells about the magi and Herod.

Why does Matthew include the magi but not the shepherds?

Because the magi show that the nations recognize Israel’s King, and Herod shows the conflict around the rightful throne of David. These are kingdom themes. Matthew wants readers to see Yeshua (Jesus) as the true King. Adding the shepherds to the story would distract from the royal feel of Matthew’s story. Shepherds were considered unclean because of their connection with animals, blood, and living in the open fields.

Why did Luke tell the story as he did?

1. Luke writes as a careful historian.

Luke opens his gospel with one of the most explicit statements of purpose in the New Testament:

“…having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you…”
(Luke 1:3, ESV)

Luke investigates eyewitnesses. He interviews people. He writes to Theophilus, likely a Gentile official. His goal is clarity, confidence, and accuracy.

Matthew writes like a rabbi.
Luke writes like a historian and physician.

2. Luke focuses on Mary, Zechariah, Elizabeth, Simeon, Anna.

Luke tells the story from the inside—from the hearts of faithful Jewish believers living at the end of the Old Testament era. He shows the joy of those waiting for redemption.

Luke wants readers to understand:

Jesus’s birth is good news for the humble.
God keeps His promises to ordinary people.
Redemption comes in surprising ways.

Luke focuses on song, worship, and joy because that is what the incarnation brings.

3. Luke emphasizes “good news for all people.”

The angel says to the shepherds:

“Fear not… I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.”
(Luke 2:10, ESV)

This is Luke’s theme: the birth of Jesus is global good news, not just a national blessing.

4. Luke ties Jesus to both Israel’s story and the world’s salvation

Luke gives two genealogies:

One through Mary (biological descent)
One all the way back to Adam (universal descent)

Why Adam?
Luke is showing that Jesus is the Savior of the whole human race.

THE OLD TESTAMENT AS THE FOUNDATION

Matthew and Luke tell the story differently, but the roots are the same. The Old Testament is not background decoration. It explains everything in the Christmas story.

Here are the primary Old Testament themes that both writers rely on:

1. The Promise of a Deliverer (Genesis 3:15)

The first promise of salvation shows that the Messiah will be born of a woman and will defeat evil. The virgin birth connects directly to this promise.

2. The Promise to Abraham (Genesis 12:1–3)

The Messiah would come from Abraham and bless the nations. Matthew highlights Abraham. Luke shows the nations coming near.

3. The Promise to David (2 Samuel 7:12–16)

God promises an eternal King. Matthew clearly emphasizes this. Luke echoes it when Gabriel says:

“The Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David.”
(Luke 1:32, ESV)

4. The Prophetic Hope of Isaiah

Isaiah anchors both gospel accounts:

Isaiah 7:14 — The virgin will conceive.
Isaiah 9:6–7 — A child will be born who is Mighty God.
Isaiah 40 — A voice will prepare the way of the Lord (John the Baptist).

5. The Bethlehem Prophecy - Micah 5:2

Matthew cites it, but Luke confirms it by showing the census that brings the family there.

6. The theme of God dwelling among His people

The birth of Jesus fulfills the tabernacle imagery:

“And the Word became flesh and dwelt [literally: ‘tabernacled’] among us.”
(John 1:14, ESV)

Both gospels show God returning to His people.

7. The suffering and opposition of God’s chosen Servant

Herod’s violence parallels the patterns seen in Pharaoh and other enemies of God’s people. Matthew—especially—highlights these parallels.

THE UNITY OF THE GOSPEL ACCOUNTS

1. The differences are complementary, not contradictory

If two witnesses tell a police officer the exact same story word-for-word, the officer becomes suspicious. Real witnesses tell the truth in different ways.

Matthew and Luke do the same.

Matthew emphasizes the kingdom.
Luke emphasizes the incarnation’s joy.
Both emphasize God’s promises.
Both present the same Messiah.
Both rely heavily on the Old Testament.

2. The timelines can be harmonized

Luke records the earlier events:

Annunciation, Elizabeth and Zechariah, Mary’s praise, the shepherds.

Matthew records events after the early days:

The magi, the escape to Egypt, Herod’s cruelty, the return to Nazareth.

When combined, they form a coherent timeline.

3. The theology is unified

Matthew: “Jesus is the promised King.”
Luke: “Jesus is the Savior for all.”

Both depend on the same Scriptures. Both show God keeping His Word. Both present Christmas as God entering history to save His people.

How does this help me understand the concept of “The Questions of Christmas?”

ONE STORY OF ONE SAVIOR

When we bring Matthew, Luke, and the Old Testament together, Christmas becomes clearer and stronger. We see the birth of Yeshua (Jesus) not as a sentimental story, but as the arrival of God’s Messiah at a specific moment in history. The gospel writers are not competitors. They are faithful partners telling one story from two angles—one King, one Savior, one hope for the world.

WHY THIS MATTERS FOR US TODAY

1. We trust the Scriptures more deeply

Seeing the unity of the accounts strengthens confidence in the inspiration of Scripture.

2. We understand God’s faithfulness

God made promises thousands of years before Jesus was born. He kept them exactly. Christmas proves God does not fail.

3. We see the Messiah clearly

Yeshua (Jesus) is not a vague religious figure. He is the King promised to Israel and the Savior promised to the nations.

4. We worship with knowledge

Christmas becomes richer when we see it through the lens of biblical prophecy.

5. We see the Old and New Testaments as one story

The Bible is not a collection of random books. It is one unified narrative leading to Christ.

Christmas is the fulfillment of God’s promises. Yeshua (Jesus) is the Messiah of Israel and the Savior for the nations. The story is one. The Scriptures are one. The Savior is one.

Danny Price 11/27/25 Danny Price 11/27/25

Week #4: New Creation: The End That Was There in the Beginning

Blog Series Intention Recap

This series will explore the grand story of Scripture—from Creation to Consummation—showing how every part of the Bible contributes to the overarching narrative of God’s redemption through Messiah. We will see the Father’s design for humanity to dwell with Him in covenant love and reflect His image in the world. Scripture reveals how God chose a people to carry His blessing and preserve the hope of salvation for all. From that people, Yeshua (Jesus) stands as the living center of Scripture, fulfilling every covenant and restoring fellowship between God and His creation. Finally, we see the complete over-story, as heaven and earth are renewed and the Father once again dwells with His redeemed people forever. From Genesis to Revelation, the same heartbeat sounds: “I will be their God, and they shall be My people.”

This page is a post in the series “Over-story: The Meta-Narrative of Scripture.” Click here to see the rest of the posts.

Let’s jump into Week #4:

The story of Scripture ends the same way it began - with God dwelling among His people. From the first garden to the final city, His desire has never changed: to live in relationship with those He created. Through Yeshua (Jesus), the separation caused by sin is healed, and the presence of God that once walked in Eden now fills every corner of creation. What was lost at the beginning is not just recovered—it’s renewed, expanded, and made everlasting in His Kingdom.

Why it Matters:

Yeshua’s (Jesus’s) resurrection marks the start of a new creation.
The Holy Spirit empowers us to live as a preview of what’s coming.
Revelation closes the story where Genesis began—Eden restored.
Our future hope fuels how we live right now.

Go Deeper:

The Story Comes Full Circle

Every story needs a good ending—and God’s story doesn’t disappoint. The Bible begins in a garden and ends in a city filled with gardens, light, and life. From Genesis to Revelation, the goal has always been the same: God dwelling with His people.

When Yeshua rose from the dead, He wasn’t just proving His power—He was launching a new creation. His resurrection was the start of something brand new, not just for Him, but for the entire world. Paul says it this way: “If anyone is in Messiah, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” (2 Corinthians 5:17, ESV)

The resurrection tells us that God isn’t done with His creation. He’s redeeming it. The story that began in Eden doesn’t end in escape—it ends in renewal.

A New Genesis Moment

John’s Gospel makes a small but powerful observation: Yeshua (Jesus) rose “on the first day of the week.” That’s not a random timestamp—it’s a clue. It’s day one of new creation.

And then there’s that little detail about Mary mistaking Him for a gardener (John 20:15). That’s not an accident either. The second Adam is back in the garden, tending to what the first Adam lost. The Gardener is restoring the garden.

The resurrection is God’s way of saying, “I’m making everything new again.” The curse is being reversed. Thorns that once marked the ground now crown the Redeemer. Death that once ruled creation is now under His feet.

The Spirit and the Preview of What’s Coming

When the Ruach HaKodesh—the Holy Spirit—was poured out at Shavuot (Pentecost), it was heaven’s way of saying, “The new creation has begun.” The same Spirit who hovered over the waters in Genesis now fills God’s people.

Paul calls the Spirit our guarantee—like a down payment on a promise (Ephesians 1:14). Every act of love, creativity, forgiveness, and faith is a small preview of what’s coming. You and I are living proof that God is already restoring His world.

Sure, we still live with pain, death, and brokenness. But the groaning we feel isn’t hopeless—it’s like birth pains. Something beautiful is being born. Every believer who carries the Spirit carries the hope of new creation wherever they go.

Eden Restored and Expanded

Revelation doesn’t end with us escaping earth—it ends with heaven coming here. “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth… and I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God.” (Revelation 21:1–2)

This isn’t the destruction of creation; it’s its transformation. The curse is gone, the separation erased. The Tree of Life reappears, and its leaves bring healing to the nations. The story that started in a garden ends in a garden-city, where God walks with His people again.

What Adam lost, Yeshua restores. The image of God in humanity is renewed, and the presence of God fills the world. Eden was just the beginning—Revelation is Eden expanded.

Living Between Resurrection and Restoration

We live in the space between what God has already accomplished through Yeshua (Jesus) and what He will one day complete when He returns to establish His literal Kingdom on the earth. The Kingdom of God isn’t here in its fullness yet—its promises await the future reign of Messiah—but we experience its spiritual blessings now through the indwelling Ruach HaKodesh (The Holy Spirit). The same Spirit who raised Yeshua (Jesus) from the dead empowers us to live faithfully in this age as people who belong to the age to come.

That means your work, your relationships, and your choices still carry eternal weight. Every time you bring peace into chaos, truth into confusion, or forgiveness into bitterness, you reflect the character of the King whose Kingdom is still on the horizon. You’re giving the world a preview—not of a Kingdom already established on earth, but of the One who is coming to rule and restore all things.

When you love your neighbor, when you create beauty, when you serve quietly in the name of Yeshua (Jesus), you’re pointing people forward to the day when He will return, reign openly, and make His Kingdom visible to all.

Hope That Anchors Us

Hope isn’t wishful thinking; it’s the confidence that God finishes what He starts. The resurrection proves that. The return of Messiah will complete it.

Paul reminds us, “The sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed.” (Romans 8:18). The same God who raised Yeshua (Jesus) will one day raise everything—bodies, relationships, and creation itself—into perfect life again.

When you feel weary, remember the end of the story: light wins, love endures, and death dies. The Author who began this story in a garden will finish it in glory.

How does this help me understand the concept of “Over-story: The Meta-Narrative of Scripture?”

Don’t wait. Live now.

Don’t wait for heaven—live heaven now. The Kingdom of God isn’t just a future destination; it’s a present reality breaking into your everyday life through Yeshua (Jesus) living in you. Let the way you speak, work, and love give people a taste of what God’s renewal looks like. Create beauty where the world feels dull. Forgive faster than bitterness can take hold. Stand for truth even when it costs you something. Love deeply, because that’s what eternity feels like.

We’re not just watching God’s story unfold—we’re part of it. Every act of kindness, creativity, and courage joins Him in putting the world back together. The garden isn’t fully grown yet, but the seeds are already sprouting in you. So plant hope, nurture peace, and watch life break through the cracks. In Messiah, the new creation has already begun—and you get to help it grow.

Connect with God

Use this prayer to connect with our God:

Heavenly Father, thank You that Your story ends with hope.
Thank You that Yeshua’s (Jesus’s) resurrection began the renewal of all things.
Fill me with Your Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit) so I can live as a preview of what’s coming.
Make me a peacemaker, a restorer, and a reflection of Your Kingdom
until the day You dwell with Your people forever. Amen.

Danny Price 11/20/25 Danny Price 11/20/25

Week #3: Messiah: The Fulfillment of Every Story

Blog Series Intention Recap

This page is a post in the series “Over-story: The Meta-Narrative of Scripture.” Click here to see the rest of the posts.

Let’s jump into Week #3:

Yeshua HaMashiach—Jesus the Messiah—is the heartbeat of Scripture. From Genesis to Revelation, every story points to Him and every promise finds its “yes” in Him. In Yeshua (Jesus), God’s plan to restore what was broken comes full circle—the Word who spoke creation into being became flesh to redeem it.

Why it Matters:

Yeshua (Jesus) embodies the whole identity and mission of Israel.
Every covenant and prophecy converges in His person.
The cross and resurrection reveal God’s justice and mercy in perfect harmony.
The Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit) continues Messiah’s (Jesus) life through His people.

Go Deeper:

The Center of the Story — The Word Made Flesh

The Bible’s over-story finds its hinge in one person. The entire narrative—from the first word of Genesis to the final “Amen” of Revelation—rotates around Yeshua HaMashiach (Jesus the Messiah). He is not simply the climax of Scripture but its very center, the heartbeat pulsing through every covenant, command, and prophecy.

John writes, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1, ESV). The Greek Logos recalls the Hebrew davar—God’s creative speech that spoke the universe into being. This Word became flesh (basar) and “tabernacled” among us (John 1:14). The verb eskēnōsen mirrors the Hebrew shakan—to dwell. The same glory that filled the Tabernacle now walked among humanity in sandals and skin.

When Yeshua (Jesus) entered human history, He did not start a new religion. He fulfilled the story already in motion. Every shadow of Torah, every psalm of lament, every prophetic vision converged in Him. He is the living Torah—the embodiment of God’s wisdom, justice, and mercy.

As Paul later wrote, “For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things.” (Romans 11:36). He is both Author and Aim of history. In Him, creation and covenant meet.

Yeshua (Jesus) as the True Israel and Second Adam

Scripture presents two great representatives of humanity: Adam and Israel. Both were called to bear God’s image and bless the world—but both faltered. In Yeshua (Jesus), God begins again.

Just as Adam was tested in a garden and failed, Yeshua (Jesus) was tested in a wilderness and triumphed. His forty days in the desert mirrored Israel’s forty years of wandering. Where Israel complained of hunger, Yeshua (Jesus) declared, “Man shall not live by bread alone.” (Matthew 4:4). Where Israel tested God, Yeshua (Jesus) trusted Him. Where Israel bowed to idols, Yeshua (Jesus) worshiped the Father alone.

The Gospels deliberately echo Israel’s story. Matthew organizes his account around five teaching discourses, reflecting the five books of Torah. Yeshua (Jesus) ascends a mountain to deliver His instruction, just as Moses did on Sinai. Yet His words reveal deeper intent: “You have heard that it was said… but I say to you.” (Matthew 5:21-22). The Rabbi of Nazareth speaks with the authority of the Author.

He does not abolish Torah but completes it—“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” (Matthew 5:17). The Hebrew concept of fulfill means to bring to full meaning, to live out what was intended. Yeshua (Jesus), therefore, becomes the living interpretation of Scripture—the Torah in motion.

Where Adam brought death, Yeshua (Jesus) brings life. Where Israel failed in obedience, Yeshua (Jesus) succeeds as the true Son. Through His faithfulness, He embodies Israel’s calling and restores humanity to Adam’s image.

The Messiah They Expected—and the One They Received

By the first century, Israel’s messianic expectation was vivid but fragmented. Many longed for a political liberator who would overthrow Rome and restore David’s throne. The prevailing image was that of a conquering king—an anointed warrior who would crush Israel’s enemies.

Messiah ben David as a judge, purifier, and nationalist deliverer. Few expected a Messiah who would suffer, be rejected, and die at the hands of pagans. If they did, they saw a separate, second Messiah, Messiah ben Joseph.

Yet the prophets had already spoken. Isaiah described a Servant “despised and rejected by men… pierced for our transgressions.” (Isaiah 53:3–5). Zechariah foresaw a humble King riding on a donkey (Zechariah 9:9). Daniel saw one “like a Son of Man” receiving dominion everlasting (Daniel 7:13–14). These seemingly paradoxical portraits—suffering and glory—find harmony in Yeshua (Jesus).

When He entered Jerusalem on a donkey, the crowd shouted “Hosanna!” expecting revolution. Instead, He cleansed the Temple, not the Roman garrison. His crown was of thorns, His throne a cross, His victory a resurrection.

Yeshua revealed that true kingship comes through servanthood. The path to glory passes through suffering. His death did not cancel the messianic hope—it redefined it. The Lion of Judah conquered by becoming the Lamb of God.

The Cross: The Meeting Place of Promise and Presence

At the cross, all the threads of the over-story intertwine. The sacrifices of Leviticus, the blood on Israel’s doorposts at Passover, the mercy seat above the Ark—all converge on the cross.

“Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29).
The Hebrew word pesach means “to pass over” or “to spare.” At the cross, judgment passes over all who hide beneath Messiah’s blood. The New Covenant (berit chadashah) is sealed not with ink or stone but with His own life.

The cross is where holiness and love meet. God’s justice demands atonement; His mercy provides it. Yeshua (Jesus) willingly bears the curse so the covenant blessings may flow freely. Paul writes, “Messiah redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us.” (Galatians 3:13).

This moment is not defeat but enthronement. Pilate’s sign—“King of the Jews”—was truer than he knew. The cross becomes the axis of history, the hinge between promise and fulfillment.

When Yeshua (Jesus) cried “It is finished” (tetelestai), He declared not an end but a completion. The work of redemption—begun in Genesis and shadowed through centuries of sacrifice—was now accomplished.

Resurrection and Reign: The Living Torah of the New Covenant

On the third day, everything changed. Resurrection was not a myth for later believers; it was the cosmic turning point. Death, once the final word, became a conquered foe.

Yeshua’s (Jesus) resurrection is more than proof of his divinity—it is the dawn of a new creation. The risen Messiah appears in a garden, echoing back to the Garden of Eden. Mary mistakes Him for the gardener, because He is tending the renewed world. The first Adam failed in a garden; the last Adam rose in one.

Through resurrection, Yeshua (Jesus) inaugurates the Dispensation of Grace. His reign is not postponed—it is present, though not yet complete. He sits at the right hand of the Father, interceding for His people. The same Spirit that raised Him from the dead now dwells in believers, continuing His mission.

Pentecost (Shavuot) fulfills Sinai. At Sinai, Torah was written on stone; at Pentecost, the Spirit inscribes it on hearts. Tongues of fire recall the mountain aflame, but now the fire spreads among the nations. The Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit) empowers the community of believers to live as Messiah’s body—continuing His presence on earth.

Where Yeshua (Jesus) once walked among twelve disciples, He now walks through millions of followers, Jew and Gentile, bound by one Spirit. The Church does not replace Israel—it extends Israel’s mission to bless the nations. Israel gets a new partner in sharing the news of God’s Favor and Grace.

Messiah in All of Scripture

After His resurrection, Yeshua (Jesus) meets two disciples on the road to Emmaus. They are discouraged, confused, and slow of heart to believe. Then, “beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.” (Luke 24:27).

That single sentence reframes the Bible. The Law, Prophets, and Writings are not disconnected texts but a unified testimony pointing to Messiah. Every story finds its meaning in Him:

He is the true Passover Lamb (Exodus 12).
The greater High Priest (Leviticus 16).
The Rock in the wilderness (Numbers 20).
The Prophet like Moses (Deuteronomy 18).
The Son of David whose throne endures forever (2 Samuel 7).
The Suffering Servant who bears iniquity (Isaiah 53).
The Righteous Branch who restores the exiles (Jeremiah 23).
The Shepherd who seeks His lost sheep (Ezekiel 34).
The Son of Man exalted to glory (Daniel 7).

When we read Scripture apart from Messiah, it fragments; in Him, it coheres. He is the lens through which every promise clarifies. The scarlet thread runs unbroken—from Eden’s garden to Gethsemane’s—and every covenant oath finds its fulfillment in His faithfulness.

How does this help me understand the concept of “Over-story: The Meta-Narrative of Scripture?”

The Mission Continues

The story of Messiah does not end with His ascension. The over-story continues through His followers, animated by His Spirit. In Acts 1:8, Yeshua (Jesus) declares, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

That command follows the same pattern as the Hebrew Scriptures, tracing a transition from a chosen people to the nations. The disciples, all Jewish, become the first-fruits of a global harvest. The gospel spreads not in opposition to Israel’s story but in fulfillment of it.

Wherever the message of Yeshua (Jesus) goes, covenant love expands. Communities form across cultures; idols fall; justice arises. The mission of Messiah is not complete until the knowledge of God covers the earth as the waters cover the sea (Habakkuk 2:14).

If Yeshua (Jesus) is the center of Scripture, He must also be the center of your life.

Read the Bible not as disjointed stories but as one unified testimony of the Redeemer’s love. Let His words interpret your world. Live as His living Torah—embodying grace and truth in every relationship.

Worship Him as more than a teacher or healer—honor Him as the Word made flesh, the dwelling place of God among us. Let the Spirit form His likeness in you so that your life becomes another chapter in the ongoing overstory of redemption.

Connect with God

Use this prayer to connect with our God:

Yeshua HaMashiach (Jesus the Messiah), Living Word and Faithful King,
You are the center of every promise and the fulfillment of every hope.
Open my eyes to see You in all of Scripture and my heart to reflect Your life.
By the power of Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit), let me bear witness to Your Kingdom
until the day You return and every tongue confesses that You are Lord. Amen.

Danny Price 11/13/25 Danny Price 11/13/25

Week #2: Promise and People: Israel’s Story as the Spine of Redemption

Blog Series Intention Recap

This page is a post in the series “Over-story: The Meta-Narrative of Scripture.” Click here to see the rest of the posts.

Let’s jump into Week #2:

God chose Israel not for privilege but for purpose… to bless all nations through His covenant promise. From Abraham’s obedience came a people designed to carry light into the darkness of the world. Through Israel, God revealed His justice, mercy, and steadfast love, demonstrating His faithfulness to every generation. And through Yeshua (Jesus), the promised Seed of Abraham, that blessing now extends to Jew and Gentile alike, fulfilling God’s plan to redeem all creation.

Why it Matters:

The Abrahamic covenant anchors redemption’s hope.
The Exodus reveals God’s character and power.
Torah forms a holy nation to reflect His justice.
Israel’s failures highlight the need for a righteous Redeemer.

Go Deeper:

The Story’s Turning Point

The over-story of Scripture moves from creation’s beauty to the covenant’s promise. When the world spiraled into rebellion at Babel, God answered not with destruction but with election. He called one man—Abram—from the idol-filled city of Ur to begin again what Adam had forfeited.

“Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you… and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” (Genesis 12:1–3, ESV)

This moment marks a decisive shift: God’s redemptive plan becomes rooted in history, geography, and family. The universal God chooses a particular people so His glory may reach every people. The covenant with Abraham (berit Avraham) is not ethnic favoritism—it is missional mercy. Through one man’s obedience, God begins to mend what sin fractured in Eden.

The promise is threefold—land, seed, and blessing—each echoing creation’s design. Land restores humanity’s purpose to cultivate and steward; seed ensures continuity of life; blessing extends God’s goodness to the nations. The covenant is cosmic in scope, yet deeply personal in expression.

Faith Before Nation

Before Abraham became the father of many nations, he was simply a man who believed. “And he believed the LORD, and He counted it to him as righteousness” (Genesis 15:6). Faith, not heritage, achievement, or ritual, defined Israel’s foundation.

Circumcision would later mark the body, but trust marked the heart. God promised descendants as numerous as the stars, even when Abraham’s body and Sarah’s womb testified otherwise. The covenant was not a reward for faith; it was a revelation of grace. God binds Himself to His word, staking His name on His faithfulness.

Every generation of Israel would look back to Abraham’s faith as the root of their identity. In that trust, Israel’s calling began—to live as a people of promise in a world of despair.

The Exodus and the Revelation of God’s Name

Centuries later, Abraham’s descendants found themselves enslaved in Egypt, their cries ascending to heaven. The God who called Abraham now reveals Himself as YHWH—the I AM WHO I AM (Exodus 3:14)—the self-existent One who acts in history.

Redemption always precedes regulation. Before Israel receives Torah, God redeems them. “I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.” (Exodus 20:2) Covenant begins with grace, not merit.

At Sinai, God declares, “You shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.” (Exodus 19:6) Priests mediate presence; holiness displays distinctiveness. The Exodus thus reveals not only God’s power but His purpose—to create a community that embodies His character.

The ten plagues dismantle Egypt’s false gods, demonstrating that God alone reigns. The parting of the sea is both rescue and recreation: waters separate again, dry land appears, and a people walk into new life. The Exodus becomes Israel’s new Genesis.

Torah: A Covenant of Love and Justice

Many see Torah as a burden, but its Hebrew meaning,"instruction,” reveals its intent. Torah teaches how redeemed people live with their Redeemer. It is not a ladder to climb into heaven but a pathway to walk in gratitude.

When Yeshua (Jesus) later summarized the Law as love for God and neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40), He echoed the heartbeat of Torah. Every statute, sacrifice, and Sabbath pointed toward relational holiness. “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8).

The giving of Torah also reflects divine wisdom. Just as boundaries ordered creation—light from darkness, sea from land—so Israel’s life was ordered by covenant boundaries. Holiness was never about separation for superiority, but distinction for display. Israel was to mirror God’s justice among the nations so that all might know His name.

The festivals—Pesach (Passover), Shavuot (Weeks), and Sukkot (Tabernacles)—became rhythm and remembrance, retelling the story of deliverance year after year. Each feast whispered of Messiah: the Lamb’s blood that saves, the Spirit’s outpouring that empowers, and the coming harvest of restored creation.

Kingdom and Failure

The story advances to a monarchy. Israel, weary of judges and chaos, demands a king “like all the nations”(1 Samuel 8:5). God grants their request but redefines kingship through covenant.

When David ascends the throne, the covenant expands: “I will raise up your offspring after you… and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever” (2 Samuel 7:12–13). The Davidic covenant anchors Israel’s hope in a coming ruler who would embody God’s righteousness. Yet even David, the man after God’s heart, reveals humanity’s frailty. His sin with Bathsheba fractures his family and kingdom, foreshadowing the nation’s coming downfall.

The kingdom divides, prophets arise, and exile follows. The northern tribes vanish into Assyrian captivity; Judah weeps by Babylon’s rivers. Yet the prophets interpret judgment as discipline, not abandonment. Exile becomes the crucible of hope.

Through Isaiah, God promises a Servant who will bear sin (Isaiah 53). Through Jeremiah, a new covenant not written on stone but on hearts (Jeremiah 31:31-33). Through Ezekiel, a vision of dry bones reborn by the Spirit (Ezekiel 37). The over-story continues: covenant broken, covenant renewed.

Prophets and the Promise of Renewal

The prophets are not merely predictors; they are poets of God’s faithfulness. They remind Israel that the covenant depends not on human perfection but divine persistence. Hosea marries Gomer to illustrate love that refuses to quit. Amos cries for justice to roll like waters. Zechariah sees a humble King riding on a donkey.

Even in silence, when prophecy ceases for four hundred years, Israel’s Scriptures remain alive. The synagogue system preserves Torah; the festivals sustain memory. Every Passover cup, every Sabbath candle, every psalm sung in exile carries a question: When will Messiah come?

Messianic Expectation and Fulfillment

Into this longing steps Yeshua HaMashiach (Jesus the Messiah), born in Bethlehem, the city of David, fulfilling Micah 5:2. His genealogy in Matthew 1 is not trivia; it’s theology. He is the Seed of Abraham, the Son of David, the promised Redeemer.

Yeshua (Jesus) embodies Israel’s calling perfectly. Where Adam failed in the face of temptation, Yeshua (Jesus) resists. Where Israel grumbled in the wilderness, Yeshua (Jesus) trusts His Father. Where kings sought power, He takes a towel. He becomes the true Israel—the Servant who fulfills the covenant by obedience unto death.

Through His cross, the blessings promised to Abraham extend to the nations. Paul writes, “In Messiah Yeshua the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles” (Galatians 3:14). The olive tree of redemption now holds natural branches (Israel) and wild grafts (the nations), nourished by one root (Romans 11:17-18).

Yet this grafting does not replace the root—it magnifies it. The Church’s identity depends on Israel’s story. The God who keeps covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob is the same God who calls believers from every tribe and tongue. Redemption’s spine remains Israel, even as its body grows global.

The Covenant Pattern Continues

From Genesis to Revelation, the pattern of covenant repeats: God calls, humanity falters, grace restores.

In creation, God covenants with Adam to steward life.
In the flood, He covenants with Noah to preserve it.
In Abraham, He covenants to bless it.
In Moses, He covenants to teach it.
In David, He covenants to govern it.
And in Messiah, He covenants to redeem it.

Each covenant adds depth, revealing the contours of God’s relentless love. In Yeshua (Jesus), every promise finds its “Yes and Amen” (2 Corinthians 1:20).

This means Israel’s story is not ancient history—it’s living theology. The promises to Abraham still stand, and the existence of the Jewish people testifies to God’s unbroken word. Through their endurance, we glimpse the faithfulness of the One who never reneges on His covenant.

The Mission of Israel and the Church

God’s purpose for Israel was never isolation but illumination. “I will make you as a light for the nations, that My salvation may reach to the end of the earth” (Isaiah 49:6). The Church does not replace Israel; it joins Israel’s mission through Messiah.

Messianic believers today stand as living bridges—honoring Torah’s roots and proclaiming the fulfillment of grace. The same covenant love that called Abraham now calls every follower of Yeshua (Jesus) to bless the nations. The gospel is Jewish at its core, yet global in its reach.

When the nations worship the God of Israel through Yeshua (Jesus), the over-story circles back to its promise: “All the families of the earth shall be blessed.” (Genesis 12:3)

How does this help me understand the concept of “Over-story: The Meta-Narrative of Scripture?”

Living in the Covenant Promise

For believers, understanding Israel’s story reshapes identity and mission. You are not a detached participant in a new religion but a grafted heir of an ancient covenant. The Scriptures of Israel are your Scriptures; their festivals reveal your Messiah; their hope fuels your endurance.

To honor Israel is to honor the God who chose her. To forget her is to misread the story you were written into. The Church’s task is not to erase the Jewish root but to display its fruit—righteousness, mercy, and faithfulness.

Covenant living means blessing the nations as Abraham did—through faith, hospitality, and obedience. Every act of kindness to the stranger, every defense of truth, every proclamation of the gospel is a continuation of Israel’s calling.

Honor Israel’s role in redemption and rejoice that you are grafted into her story. Let your gratitude shape your witness—humble, faithful, and generous. Reject replacement theology and embrace covenant theology: one plan of salvation, one faithful God, one Messiah for Jew and Gentile alike.

Read the Hebrew Scriptures not as background but as backbone. Let the feasts, psalms, and prophecies enrich your worship of Yeshua, the King of Israel and Redeemer of all. Live as a blessing to the nations, carrying the same promise that began with Abraham.

Connect with God

Use this prayer to connect with our God:

God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, You are faithful through every generation.
Thank You for calling Israel to be a light among the nations and for fulfilling Your promise through Yeshua HaMashiach (Jesus the Messiah).
Teach me to honor the root that supports me, to love the people of Israel, and to live as a blessing wherever You send me.
May my life reflect covenant faithfulness until all the earth knows Your name. Amen.

Danny Price 11/6/25 Danny Price 11/6/25

Week #1: In the Beginning: Creation and Covenant

Blog Series Intention Recap

This page is a post in the series “Over-story: The Meta-Narrative of Scripture.” Click here to see the rest of the posts.

Let’s jump into Week #1:

In the beginning, God created… Before history began, our God authored a story of unending love—a divine plan woven through time to reveal His heart for communion with His creation. From the first breath in Eden to the final promise of new creation, every page of Scripture echoes His longing to dwell with His people. Covenant becomes the language of that love, binding heaven and earth through faithfulness that neither sin nor death can undo.

Why it Matters:

Creation displays God’s wisdom and relational intent.
Humanity bears His image to represent His rule.
Sin fractures creation’s harmony but not God’s purpose.
Covenant becomes the framework of restoration.

Go Deeper:

The Story’s Opening Scene

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1, ESV)

Every story begins somewhere, but the story of Scripture starts everywhere. Genesis 1 is not merely an origin account—it is the overture to redemption’s symphony. Out of nothing (tohu va-bohu, “formless and void”), God brings cosmos from chaos, beauty from barrenness, and life from the deep. His creative speech—vayomer Elohim (“And God said”)—is both command and communion. He does not form a world to observe from a distance; He creates a dwelling for Himself and His image-bearers.

The Hebrew verb bara means to create with divine intentionality. Creation is not accidental, nor is it impersonal. It is an act of covenant generosity. Every boundary set—light from darkness, sea from land, heaven from earth—demonstrates divine order. The world is not a stage for human performance but a sanctuary for divine presence.

On the sixth day, the narrative slows. The rhythm of repetition—and God said… and it was so… and God saw that it was good—suddenly expands into intimacy:

“Then the LORD God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.” (Genesis 2:7)

Dust and divinity meet. The Hebrew adamah (ground) gives the name to Adam, the first human. Out of what is lowly, our God shapes what is holy. When He breathes His Ruach—His Spirit—into Adam, He transfers not merely oxygen but purpose. Humanity becomes the living image of the invisible God.

Creation: Wisdom and Relationship

Proverbs 8 personifies chokmah—wisdom—as being with God in the beginning: “When He established the heavens, I was there… then I was beside Him, like a master workman, and I was daily His delight.” (Proverbs 8:27, 30). Creation, then, is an act of wisdom expressing relationship. The world reflects divine order not through mechanical laws but moral harmony—shalom.

The Hebrew worldview sees no divide between sacred and secular. All of life is meant to declare the glory of its Creator. The sea teems, the sky sings, and humanity, male and female, completes the chorus. “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.” (Genesis 1:26). This plural counsel points to divine fellowship—Father, Word (Yeshua), and Spirit acting in perfect unity.

From the beginning, the story is relational. Our God does not create because He lacks companionship; He creates to share His love. The universe is an overflow of divine chesed—steadfast love. Humanity, therefore, is not an afterthought but the centerpiece of this relational design.

Bearing the Image of the King

“So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” (Genesis 1:27)

The word tselem (image) carries royal meaning. In the ancient Near East, kings placed images of themselves in distant lands as a sign of their authority. To see the image was to acknowledge the ruler’s reign. Humanity, then, is the imago dei, our God’s living image—His royal representatives in creation.

To bear God’s image is to exercise dominion, not domination. Dominion means stewardship under authority—tending the earth as priests in God’s temple. Humanity’s first command, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it,” (Genesis 1:28), is a mission statement. We are to extend Eden’s order to the ends of the earth. Creation is not static; it’s meant to be cultivated.

In Genesis 2, our God plants a garden in Eden—an enclosed sanctuary. He walks there with Adam and Eve in the cool of the day. This image of God’s presence walking among His people anticipates the tabernacle in the wilderness and, ultimately, Messiah Himself. Every act of God from this point forward—every covenant, every command, every prophet—flows from His desire to restore what was lost: intimate dwelling with His people.

The Fracture of Shalom

The story shifts dramatically in Genesis 3. A serpent speaks, and its words invert creation’s order: a creature instructing humanity rather than serving it. The temptation—“You will be like God”—was not about curiosity but autonomy. Humanity chose self-definition over divine dependence. The result was catastrophic.

Sin shattered shalom—the wholeness of creation. The ground (adamah) now resists its steward; pain enters labor and birth; death begins its reign. Yet even in judgment, mercy breathes. God clothes the guilty and curses the deceiver: “He shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise His heel.” (Genesis 3:15). This protoevangelium—the first gospel—announces that the seed of the woman will crush the serpent’s head. Redemption is seeded in ruin.

Here, the overstory takes shape: God will not abandon His creation. His plan bends toward restoration through covenant promise and faithful love. The same God who walked in Eden will one day walk again among His people.

Covenant as the Framework of Redemption

The Hebrew word berit (covenant) appears later in Scripture, but its structure is already implicit in Eden. God gives commands, blessings, and consequences—the building blocks of a covenant relationship. In every generation, He reveals Himself through covenants that renew His intent to dwell with humanity.

With Noah, the covenant preserves creation from total collapse (Genesis 9). The rainbow declares divine mercy after judgment—a sign of steadfast restraint and hope.
With Abraham, covenant promises land, descendants, and blessing to all nations (Genesis 12, 15, 17). The stars overhead echo Eden’s mandate of fruitfulness, now rooted in faith.
With Moses, the covenant forms a nation to model holiness (Exodus 19–24). Sinai becomes a mountain of meeting—a renewed Eden where God descends in fire.
With David, covenant points to a coming King whose throne will endure forever (2 Samuel 7). This messianic line will carry the promise of restoration forward.
And with Yeshua (Jesus), the New Covenant fulfills them all (Jeremiah 31:31–33; Luke 22:20). The covenant written on tablets of stone becomes inscribed on human hearts by Ruach HaKodesh (the Holy Spirit).

Each covenant narrows the focus of redemption, guiding history toward Messiah. In Yeshua HaMashiach (Jesus the Messiah)—the Word through whom all things were made (John 1:3)—our God’s original intent comes full circle. He becomes flesh and “tabernacles” among us (John 1:14). In Him, Eden reopens.

The Garden, the Temple, and the Cross

Throughout Scripture, the theme of dwelling recurs: Eden → Tabernacle → Temple → Yeshua → Church → New Jerusalem. Each stage advances the same purpose—to restore divine presence.

The Tabernacle’s design mirrors creation’s order: light, water, vegetation, and humanity symbolized in golden lampstands, basins, and cherubim. When Ruach HaKodesh fills the Tabernacle in Exodus 40, it parallels the Spirit hovering over the waters in Genesis 1:2. Creation and covenant are inseparable: God creates to dwell, and He covenants to restore.

At the cross, Yeshua (Jesus) fulfills both. The One through whom the world began endures its curse to remake it anew. The thorns that crowned Him recall the cursed ground; His cry—“It is finished”—signals not defeat but completion of creation’s restoration. Through resurrection, He becomes “the firstborn from the dead,” the first fruit of new creation (Colossians 1:18).

How does this help me understand the concept of “Over-story: The Meta-Narrative of Scripture?”

Living in the Over-story

You were created for communion, not mere existence. Live as one shaped by divine breath and sustained by covenant grace. Reflect His image where you work, love, and lead. Let your faith restore what sin has fractured—families, friendships, and faith communities.

Every act of obedience retells Genesis in miniature: light overcoming darkness, order rising from chaos, and love revealing the Creator’s heart. To read Genesis rightly is to see yourself within it. The creation narrative is not an ancient myth but a modern mirror. You were formed by design and redeemed for a relationship. The same Spirit that hovered over the waters hovers over your chaos, ready to create new life.

Humanity’s task remains the same: bear God’s image in the world. Represent His reign through creativity, compassion, and covenant faithfulness. Each time you choose truth over deceit, mercy over vengeance, stewardship over selfishness, you participate in the over-story of redemption.

Covenant faithfulness is not cold obligation—it’s relational trust. To walk with God is to echo Eden’s fellowship and anticipate the day He will dwell with His people again.

Connect with God

Use this prayer to connect with our God:

Heavenly Father, Creator of heaven and earth, breathe on me anew.
Restore Your image in my thoughts, words, and actions.
Let my life be a living covenant—faithful, fruitful, and filled with Your Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit).
Through Yeshua HaMashiach (Jesus the Messiah), make me a dwelling place for Your glory, until the earth is filled with the knowledge of You as the waters cover the sea. Amen.

Danny Price 8/22/24 Danny Price 8/22/24

Week #4: The Power of Prayer: Unlocking God’s Miracles

Blog Series Intention Recap

This four-week series approaches what it means to live a life of prayer. Starting with the difference between the joy of a real relationship through the gospel versus empty religious duty, this series will encourage students to develop a meaningful prayer life by overcoming distractions, prioritizing God’s presence, and using God’s Word as fuel for effective prayer.

This post is part of the series “Praying.” Click here to see the rest of the posts.

Let’s jump into Week #4:

Prayer is powerful because it changes circumstances, transforms us, and serves as a weapon in spiritual warfare.

Why it matters:

Prayer changes things: God responds to the prayers of His people.
Prayer changes us: Through prayer, God transforms our hearts and minds.
Prayer in spiritual warfare: Use prayer as a weapon against the enemy.
Testimonies of answered prayer: Real-life examples of prayer’s power.

Go Deeper

The Impact and Power of Prayer

Prayer is not just a religious practice; it’s a powerful tool that connects us with God and unleashes His power in our lives. Throughout this series, we’ve discussed the purpose of prayer, the different types of prayer, and how to pray effectively. Now, let’s focus on the impact and power of prayer. Prayer is more than words; it’s a force that changes things, transforms us, and defeats spiritual enemies.

Prayer Changes Things: God Responds to the Prayers of His People

Prayer has the power to change circumstances. James 5:16 says, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” This means that when we pray, God listens and responds. Throughout the Bible, we see examples of how prayer changed situations. When the Israelites were trapped at the Red Sea, Moses prayed, and God parted the waters (Exodus 14). When Hannah prayed for a child, God gave her a son, Samuel (1 Samuel 1:27). These examples show that God responds to the prayers of His people.

Prayer can change the course of events in our lives. When we bring our needs, concerns, and desires to God in prayer, we invite Him to intervene in our situations. Whether it’s a need for healing, guidance, provision, or protection, prayer opens the door for God to work in our lives. It’s important to remember that God’s response may not always be what we expect, but we can trust that His ways are perfect and that He knows what’s best for us.

God’s promise in 2 Chronicles 7:14 is a powerful reminder of His willingness to respond to our prayers: “If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” This verse shows that when we pray, God hears us and is ready to act on our behalf. Prayer is not just a way to communicate with God; it’s a way to invite His power into our lives.

Prayer Changes Us: God Transforms Our Hearts and Minds

While prayer can change circumstances, it also has the power to change us. Romans 12:2 tells us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Through prayer, God works in our hearts and minds to transform us into the people He wants us to be.

As we pray, we align our thoughts, desires, and actions with God’s will. Prayer helps us to see things from God’s perspective, to trust Him more, and to grow in our relationship with Him. It softens our hearts, making us more compassionate, forgiving, and loving. When we pray, we open ourselves up to God’s work in our lives, allowing Him to mold us and shape us into His image.

Prayer also changes our priorities. As we spend time in prayer, we begin to desire what God desires. Our selfish wants and needs take a backseat to God’s plans and purposes. This transformation is a key aspect of spiritual growth. The more we pray, the more we become like Christ, reflecting His love and character in our lives.

The Spiritual Warfare Aspect: Prayer as a Weapon Against the Enemy

Prayer is not just about talking to God; it’s also a weapon in spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:18 says, “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” This verse reminds us that prayer is a powerful tool in the battle against spiritual forces.

The Bible teaches that we are in a spiritual battle against the forces of evil. Prayer is one of the weapons God has given us to fight this battle. When we pray, we stand against the enemy’s schemes, protect ourselves with God’s armor, and call on God’s power to defeat the enemy.

Through prayer, we can resist temptation, overcome sin, and break free from the enemy’s hold on our lives. Prayer also plays a crucial role in protecting others. When we pray for our loved ones, we are asking God to guard them against spiritual attacks and to strengthen them in their faith.

Prayer is a powerful defense against the enemy’s attacks. It keeps us grounded in God’s truth, fills us with His strength, and helps us stand firm in our faith. When we pray, we invite God’s power into our lives and the lives of others, equipping us to face the challenges of spiritual warfare.

Testimonies of Answered Prayer: Real-Life Examples of Prayer’s Power

The power of prayer is evident in the countless testimonies of people whose lives have been changed by prayer. Here are a few examples:

Healing: In 2006, my wife’s ob-gyn informed us our baby’s sonogram displayed 14 markers for a genetic defect. After a second opinion, we were devastated when we were told at best our child had Down Syndrome and at worst Trisomy 18 (which was incompatible with life). Our church began to pray for our child. During that time, we had a name picked out and Michelle felt like we were to change it to Joshua Ethan (Jehovah saves strongly). On my 30th birthday, we had a specialized sonogram where they went system by system and found all but one marker had been resolved.
Provision: As our church planter, our family was struggling financially. We constantly prayed for God’s provision. We needed money to pay the church’s bills but even more so to pay our bills and put food on the table. One day, I received a phone call out of the blue and a donor gave the church a large amount which would cover the church’s expenses and our paycheck. God answered our prayer by providing for both our and the church’s needs miraculously.
Protection: One of my mentors was working to start a church in Nicaragua. He and the missionary were working in a dangerous portion of the country and they prayed daily for protection. One day, armed men approached the two men with the intent to harm him. They were kidnapped and taken to the dump to be killed. They prayed for protection. God answered his prayer by sending protection. But even more, the missionary was allowed to keep his wedding ring which allowed his wife to deal with the situation.

These testimonies show that God is still at work today, answering prayers and performing miracles. They remind us that prayer is powerful and that God is faithful in responding when we call on Him.

How does this help me understand, “Praying?”

Relying on Prayer in Every Situation

Prayer is a powerful tool that can change circumstances, transform our hearts, and protect us in spiritual warfare. It’s not just a practice; it’s a way of life that connects us with God and invites His power into our lives. As we conclude this series on prayer, I encourage you to rely on prayer in every situation.

Whatever you’re facing—whether it’s a challenge, a need, or a spiritual battle—bring it to God in prayer. Trust that He hears you and will respond in His perfect timing and way. Remember that prayer is not just about getting what we want; it’s about growing closer to God, becoming more like Christ, and standing strong in our faith.

Make prayer a priority in your life. Set aside time each day to connect with God, pour out your heart to Him, and listen for His voice. As you do, you’ll experience the power of prayer in your life and see God work in amazing ways.

Trust in God’s power and faithfulness, and never underestimate the impact of prayer.

Danny Price 8/15/24 Danny Price 8/15/24

Week #3: How to Pray: Connecting with God the Right Way

Blog Series Intention Recap

This post is part of the series “Praying.” Click here to see the rest of the posts.

Let’s jump into Week #3:

Effective prayer is about approaching God with reverence, honesty, faith, and the truth of Scripture.

Why it matters:

Approach prayer with reverence, recognizing God’s holiness.
Be honest and sincere; God values authenticity.
Pray with faith, trusting God to hear and answer.
Use Scripture to guide your prayers and claim God’s promises.

Go Deeper

Learning to Pray Effectively

Prayer is how we talk to God and build our relationship with Him. Last week, we explored the different types of prayer: adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication. Now, let's focus on how to pray effectively. Prayer is not just about saying words; it’s about connecting with God in a meaningful way. To do this, we need to approach prayer with the right attitude and mindset. Here are four practical steps to help you pray effectively.

Approach with Reverence: Remember Who God Is

When you pray, remember that you are speaking to God, the Creator of the universe. Hebrews 4:16 says, “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” This verse reminds us that we can come to God with confidence, but we should also approach Him with reverence.

Reverence means showing deep respect. It means recognizing that God is holy, powerful, and worthy of our worship. When you start your prayer, take a moment to remember who God is. Think about His greatness, His love, and His authority. This helps you to approach Him with the right attitude—one of humility and awe.

When you approach prayer with reverence, you are acknowledging God’s place in your life. You are recognizing that He is in control, and you are submitting to His will. This sets the tone for your prayer and helps you focus on God, rather than just on your own needs.

Be Honest and Sincere: God Values Authenticity

God wants us to be real with Him. Matthew 6:5-6 says, “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

Jesus teaches us to pray with sincerity, not to impress others, but to connect with God. When you pray, be honest about what’s in your heart. If you’re struggling, tell God. If you’re thankful, express it. If you’ve sinned, confess it. God already knows everything about you, so there’s no need to hide anything. He values your honesty and wants you to come to Him just as you are.

Being sincere in prayer means you don’t have to use fancy words or follow a strict formula. Just speak from your heart. God cares more about your honesty than about the specific words you use. When you pray sincerely, you open yourself up to a deeper relationship with God, one that is based on trust and truth.

Pray with Faith: Trust That God Hears and Answers

Faith is essential in prayer. Mark 11:24 says, “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” This verse teaches us to pray with confidence, believing that God hears us and will answer our prayers.

Praying with faith means trusting God, even when you can’t see the results right away. It means believing that God is listening, that He cares about your needs, and that He has the power to answer your prayers. Faith is not just about getting what you want; it’s about trusting that God knows what’s best for you and will provide in His perfect timing.

When you pray with faith, you are putting your trust in God’s hands. You are saying, “God, I trust You to take care of this situation.” This kind of trust pleases God and strengthens your relationship with Him. Even if the answer to your prayer is not what you expected, you can have peace knowing that God is in control and that His plans for you are good.

Use Scripture: Pray God’s Promises Back to Him

One of the most powerful ways to pray is by using Scripture. Isaiah 55:11 says, “So is My word that goes out from My mouth: It will not return to Me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” God’s Word is powerful, and when we pray using Scripture, we are aligning our prayers with His will.

Praying Scripture means taking the promises and truths found in the Bible and making them part of your prayers. For example, if you’re feeling anxious, you might pray Philippians 4:6-7: “God, You tell me not to be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, to present my requests to You. I ask for Your peace, which transcends all understanding, to guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus.”

Using Scripture in your prayers helps you to pray in line with God’s will. It also strengthens your faith, because you are reminding yourself of God’s promises. When you pray Scripture, you can be confident that you are praying according to God’s truth and that He will accomplish His purposes in your life.

Scriptural Support: The Lord’s Prayer as a Model

In Matthew 6:9-13, Jesus gives us the Lord’s Prayer, which is a model of how to pray effectively. The Lord’s Prayer includes all the elements we’ve discussed:

Reverence: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name.” We start by recognizing God’s holiness and greatness.
Sincerity: “Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” We sincerely seek God’s will above our own.
Faith: “Give us today our daily bread.” We trust God to provide for our needs.
Scripture and Confession: “And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” We confess our sins and ask for God’s guidance and protection.

The Lord’s Prayer is a simple yet powerful example of how to pray effectively. It teaches us to approach God with reverence, sincerity, faith, and to use Scripture in our prayers.

How does this help me understand, “Praying?”

A Challenge to Pray Daily

Effective prayer is not about using the right words; it’s about connecting with God in the right way. By approaching prayer with reverence, honesty, faith, and Scripture, you can strengthen your relationship with God and experience the power of prayer in your life.

I challenge you to set aside dedicated time for prayer each day. Start by following the steps we’ve discussed. Begin with reverence, acknowledging who God is. Be honest and sincere in your prayers, telling God what’s on your heart. Pray with faith, trusting that God hears and will answer. And use Scripture to guide your prayers, aligning them with God’s will.

As you practice these steps, you will find that your prayer life becomes more meaningful and effective. Prayer will no longer be just a routine, but a vital connection with God that brings peace, guidance, and strength to your life.

Danny Price 8/8/24 Danny Price 8/8/24

Week #2: The Different Types of Prayer: Connecting with God in Every Way

Blog Series Intention Recap

This post is part of the series “Praying.” Click here to see the rest of the posts.

Let’s jump into Week #2:

Prayer is more than asking for things; it is a way to praise, confess, give thanks, & seek God’s help in all areas of life.

Why it matters:

Adoration: Praise God for who He is.
Confession: Admit sins and seek forgiveness.
Thanksgiving: Thank God for His blessings.
Supplication: Ask God for our needs and the needs of others.

Go Deeper

Understanding the Purpose of Prayer

Prayer is how we connect with God. It’s not just about asking for things; it’s about building a relationship with Him. Last week, we learned that prayer helps us grow closer to God, listen to Him, and depend on Him. Now, let’s explore the different types of prayer. Each type of prayer serves a unique purpose and helps us connect with God in different ways.

Adoration: Praising God for Who He Is

Adoration means praising God for who He is. It’s like telling a friend how much you appreciate them, but even more important. When we adore God, we are not asking for anything. Instead, we are focusing on God’s greatness and holiness. Psalm 95:6-7 says, “Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker; for He is our God and we are the people of His pasture, the flock under His care.”

When you pray in adoration, you recognize God’s power, love, and goodness. You tell God that you love Him and are amazed by His greatness. Adoration helps us remember who God is. It takes our focus off ourselves and puts it on God. This type of prayer strengthens our faith because it reminds us that God is in control and that He is worthy of all our praise.

Confession: Admitting Our Sins and Asking for Forgiveness

Confession is an important part of prayer. It means telling God about the wrong things we have done and asking for His forgiveness. We all make mistakes, and confession helps us make things right with God. 1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

When you confess your sins in prayer, you are being honest with God. You admit that you have done wrong and need His forgiveness. This type of prayer helps us stay close to God because it clears away anything that could come between us and Him. Confession is like cleaning your room; it gets rid of the mess so that you can live in a clean space. When we confess our sins, we clear the way for a closer relationship with God.

Thanksgiving: Thanking God for His Blessings

Thanksgiving is a way to show gratitude to God for all the good things He has done. When we pray with thanksgiving, we focus on the blessings in our lives and thank God for them. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Thanksgiving helps us to be grateful. It reminds us of how much God has given us. When you thank God in prayer, you are acknowledging that every good thing comes from Him. This type of prayer also helps us to have a positive attitude. Even when things are tough, there is always something to be thankful for. Giving thanks in prayer shifts our focus from what we don’t have to what God has already provided.

Supplication: Asking God for Our Needs and the Needs of Others

Supplication means asking God for something. This is the type of prayer most people think of first. It’s when we ask God to help us, heal us, or provide for us. But supplication is not just about asking for our needs; it’s also about praying for others. Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

When you pray in supplication, you are bringing your needs and the needs of others to God. This type of prayer shows that we trust God to take care of us and the people we care about. It’s important to remember that God wants us to come to Him with our needs. He is a loving Father who cares about every detail of our lives. But supplication is not just about getting what we want. It’s about seeking God’s will and trusting that He knows what is best for us and for others.

Scriptural Support: The Lord’s Prayer as a Model

Jesus gave us a model for prayer in Luke 11:1-4, known as the Lord’s Prayer. This prayer includes all the types of prayer we’ve talked about. It starts with adoration: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name.” It includes supplication: “Give us each day our daily bread.” It has confession: “Forgive us our sins.” And it ends with a request for guidance and protection: “And lead us not into temptation.”

The Lord’s Prayer shows us that prayer is more than just asking for things. It’s a way to praise God, confess our sins, thank Him for His blessings, and ask for His help. By following this model, we can have a balanced prayer life that covers all the important aspects of our relationship with God.

How does this help me understand, “Praying?”

Incorporating All Types of Prayer

Prayer is a powerful tool that helps us grow closer to God. But to fully experience the power of prayer, we need to incorporate all types of prayer into our daily lives. Don’t just focus on asking for things. Take time to praise God, confess your sins, and thank Him for His blessings. By doing so, you will develop a deeper relationship with God and experience the fullness of His love and grace.

Make it a habit to include adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication in your prayers. Each type of prayer serves a purpose and helps you connect with God in different ways. As you practice these types of prayer, you will find that your relationship with God grows stronger and more meaningful.

Remember, prayer is not just about getting things from God. It’s about connecting with Him, understanding His will, and growing in your faith. So, take time each day to pray in different ways and watch how your relationship with God deepens.

Danny Price 8/1/24 Danny Price 8/1/24

Week #1: The Purpose of Praying: Connecting with God

Blog Series Intention Recap

This post is part of the series “Praying.” Click here to see the rest of the posts.

Let’s jump into Week #1:

Prayer is more than words; it is a vital connection to God that deepens our relationship, expresses our dependence, and allows us to hear from Him.

Why it matters:

Prayer is a relationship, not just a ritual.
It is a two-way communication with God.
Through prayer, we express our need for God in everything.
Prayer should be a daily practice that fosters intimacy with God.

Go Deeper

What is Prayer?

Prayer is talking with God. It's as simple as that. Like you talk to your parents or friends, prayer is how we talk to God. But it’s more than just saying words—building a relationship. When you pray, you especially connect with God. You share your thoughts, feelings, and needs with Him. And you also listen, because God has things He wants to share with you too.

Prayer as a Relationship

Think about your best friend. You talk to them, spend time with them, and get to know them better. The more you talk, the closer you become. Prayer is like that with God. It’s not just about asking for things or saying the right words. It’s about getting to know God better and letting Him know you. When you pray, you are spending time with God, just like you would with a friend.

In the Bible, God invites us to be close to Him. James 4:8 says, “Come near to God and He will come near to you.” When you pray, you are coming near to God. You are opening your heart to Him and letting Him into your life. This is how a relationship grows—by spending time together.

Communication with God

Prayer is a two-way conversation. When you pray, you talk to God, but you also need to listen. God speaks to us in many ways—through the Bible, through thoughts and feelings, and sometimes through other people. When you pray, take time to be quiet and listen. Ask God to speak to your heart.

Have you ever tried to talk to someone who didn’t listen to you? It’s frustrating, right? Well, God always listens when we pray. 1 John 5:14 says, “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.” God hears every word we say, and He cares about what we have to say. But prayer isn’t just about talking. It’s also about listening. When we listen, we can hear what God wants to say to us.

Expressing Dependence on God

When you pray, you are telling God that you need Him. This is important because we can’t do everything on our own. We need God’s help in our lives. In Philippians 4:6, the Bible tells us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” When you pray, you are showing that you trust God to take care of you.

Prayer is like asking for help when you need it. Imagine trying to lift something heavy by yourself. It’s tough! But when someone stronger comes to help, the load is easier to carry. That’s what prayer does. It takes our worries and problems and gives them to God, who is strong enough to handle anything.

God wants us to depend on Him. He wants us to come to Him with our problems, our needs, and our fears. Prayer is how we do that. It’s how we say, “God, I need you. I can’t do this on my own.” And God is always ready to help.

Scriptural Support: Pray Continually

The Bible has a lot to say about prayer. One of the most important things is that we should pray all the time. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 says, “Pray continually.” This doesn’t mean you have to be on your knees all day long. It means you should keep God in your thoughts and talk to Him throughout the day.

Praying continually means you are always aware that God is with you. It means you can talk to Him anytime, anywhere. Whether you’re happy, sad, or in need, you can pray. And when you do, you are keeping that connection with God strong.

Philippians 4:6-7 also encourages us to pray. It says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This verse reminds us that prayer is the answer to worry. When we pray, we can find peace in knowing that God is in control.

How does this help me understand, “Praying?”

Prayer is not just something you do once in a while. It’s something you should do every day. Just like you eat food to keep your body healthy, you need to pray to keep your relationship with God healthy. The more you pray, the closer you will be to God.

Make prayer a habit. Start your day with prayer, and end your day with prayer. Talk to God throughout the day. When you’re happy, thank Him. When you’re sad, ask Him for help. When you need something, tell Him. And don’t forget to listen. God wants to speak to you too.

Prayer is a powerful way to connect with God. It’s how you build a relationship with Him, communicate with Him, and show that you depend on Him. Make prayer a regular part of your life, and watch your relationship with God grow stronger every day.

Danny Price 8/1/24 Danny Price 8/1/24

Praying

Blog Series Intention Recap

This post is the main page of the series “Praying.”

Danny Price 7/25/24 Danny Price 7/25/24

Week #4: FAQ about Death, Hell, and Heaven

Blog Series Intention Recap

What happens after you die? Is it nothingness? Is it a conversation with St. Peter? Are there really pearly gates?

So You’re Dead, Now What?

The afterlife is cloaked in mystery. What happens moments after we die? What is Heaven really like? What about Hell? And does what we do in this world matter in the next? Join us as we spend four weeks uncovering the life-altering answers to these questions.

This post is part of the series “So You Are Dead, Now What?” Click here to see the rest of the posts.

Let’s jump into Week #4:

People ask a lot of questions about what comes next. We can only use the Bible to help us figure out the answers.

Why it matters:

Everyone has questions. Here are some of the most common:

Do pets go to heaven?
Should a Christian be cremated?
Will people be married or have sex in heaven?
Should we try to contact the dead?
Can a person who commits suicide go to heaven?
Will we remember our lives when we’re in heaven?
Can people in heaven see what is happening on earth?
Is there more than one way to get to heaven?

Go Deeper

Do Pets Go to Heaven?

The Bible does not give a clear answer about pets in heaven. However, it does mention animals in the new creation. Isaiah 11:6-9 describes a peaceful kingdom where animals live in harmony. While this passage does not confirm pets in heaven, it shows God's care for His creation. Many believe God may include all His creatures in heaven since He loves them. Ultimately, we trust God's goodness and wisdom.

Should a Christian Be Cremated?

Cremation is a personal choice and not directly addressed in the Bible. The Bible focuses on the resurrection of the body rather than its burial method. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44 teaches that our earthly bodies will be transformed into glorified bodies. Whether buried or cremated, God can resurrect and transform our bodies. Christians should seek God's guidance and personal conviction when deciding.

Will People Be Married or Have Sex in Heaven?

Jesus addressed this in Matthew 22:30, saying, "At the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven." Earthly marriage is a temporary institution designed for companionship and procreation. In heaven, our relationship with God will be perfect and fulfilling. The joy and love we experience with God and others in heaven will surpass earthly relationships.

Should We Try to Contact the Dead?

The Bible warns against trying to contact the dead. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 calls such practices detestable to God. Seeking contact with the dead can open doors to harmful spiritual influences. Instead, we should trust God and seek His guidance through prayer and Scripture. We can find comfort in knowing our loved ones are in God's care and look forward to being reunited with them in heaven.

Can a Person Who Commits Suicide Go to Heaven?

Suicide is a tragic act that deeply affects families and communities. The Bible does not state that suicide is an unforgivable sin. Romans 8:38-39 assures us that nothing can separate believers from God's love. Salvation is based on faith in Jesus Christ, not on the manner of death. It is important to offer compassion and support to those struggling with mental health issues and remind them of God's love and grace.

Will We Remember Our Lives When We’re in Heaven?

The Bible suggests that we will have some memory of our earthly lives in heaven. Revelation 6:9-10 shows martyrs in heaven remembering their earthly suffering and asking for justice. However, Revelation 21:4 tells us that God will wipe away every tear, and there will be no more pain or sorrow. Our memories will be transformed and free from suffering, allowing us to fully enjoy God's presence.

Can People in Heaven See What Is Happening on Earth?

The Bible does not give a definitive answer on this. Hebrews 12:1 refers to a "great cloud of witnesses," which some interpret as saints watching over us. However, this may be symbolic, encouraging us to live faithfully. While it is uncertain if people in heaven see earthly events, we can trust that they are in perfect joy and peace with God.

Is There More Than One Way to Get to Heaven?

According to the Bible, Jesus is the only way to heaven. John 14:6 quotes Jesus saying, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Acts 4:12 also emphasizes that salvation is found only in Jesus. While respecting others' beliefs, Christians are called to share the truth of salvation through Jesus Christ alone.

Danny Price 7/18/24 Danny Price 7/18/24

Week #3: Heaven

Blog Series Intention Recap

What happens after you die? Is it nothingness? Is it a conversation with St. Peter? Are there really pearly gates?

So You’re Dead, Now What?

This post is part of the series “So You Are Dead, Now What?” Click here to see the rest of the posts.

Let’s jump into Week #3:

Heaven is a glorious place prepared by God for those who love Him.

Why it matters:

Heaven is indescribably wonderful.
Many myths about heaven are incorrect.
The Bible provides glimpses of heaven.
Heaven will be a place of eternal joy and peace.

Go Deeper

In his book, "The Great Divorce," C.S. Lewis creates a Christian allegory about a bus ride from hell to heaven. The story's narrator finds himself in a grey town (which is revealed to be hell or purgatory depending on your view) and joins a group of souls on a bus trip to the outskirts of heaven. Upon arrival, the passengers encounter heavenly beings who try to persuade them to abandon their sinful ways and embrace redemption. However, many of the visitors struggle to let go of their earthly attachments and choose to return to hell. While the book explores themes of choice, free will, and the transformative power of God's grace. Lewis uses vivid imagery and dialogue to illustrate the stark contrast between heaven's joy and hell's misery.

“The Great Divorce” provides a jumping-off point for our discussion about Heaven. What is heaven like? Some interpretations of scripture tell us that heaven is a beautiful and amazing place God has prepared for those who love Him. Understanding heaven can give us hope and joy as we live our lives. Other interpretations say our view of heaven will be mitigated by this life. Let’s jump in:

Heaven Is Indescribably Wonderful

1 Corinthians 2:9 says, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him." Heaven is beyond anything we can imagine. It is a place of incredible beauty and joy, where we will be with God forever.

Early church fathers emphasized the glory of heaven. Augustine wrote, "There we shall rest and see, see and love, love and praise. This is what shall be in the end without end. For what other end do we propose to ourselves than to attain to the kingdom of which there is no end?"

Myths About Heaven

Heaven Can Wait

Some people think heaven is not very exciting and that life on earth is better. But the Bible says otherwise. Psalm 84:10 tells us, "Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere." Heaven is far better than anything on earth. Psalm 16:11 adds, "You will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand." Heaven is a place of endless joy and pleasure in God's presence.

Most People Are Going to Heaven

Another myth is that most people will go to heaven. Jesus tells us in Matthew 7:13-14, "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." Not everyone will go to heaven. Only those who follow Jesus and believe in Him will enter.

A Glimpse into Heaven

The Bible gives us a glimpse of what heaven will be like. Revelation 21:1-4 describes a new heaven and a new earth. "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, 'Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.'"

John Calvin, the Protestant Reformer, emphasized the joy and peace of heaven: "Whatever we are deprived of in this world, the infinite treasures of heaven are stored up for us, so that we shall lack nothing."

Heavenly Conclusions

God Will Establish a New Heaven and New Earth

Revelation 21:1 tells us, "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away." Isaiah 65:17 also says, "Behold, I will create new heavens and a new earth." And 2 Peter 3:13 adds, "But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness." God will create a new heaven and a new earth where we will live with Him forever.

God Will Do Away with Death, Mourning, and Pain

In heaven, there will be no more suffering. Revelation 21:4-5 says, "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." God will make everything new and perfect. 1 Corinthians 2:9 reminds us, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him." The joys of heaven will be beyond our wildest dreams.

God Will Dwell with Us

The best part of heaven is that God will be with us. Revelation 21:3 says, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God." We will see God face to face and enjoy His presence forever. Revelation 22:3-4 adds, "No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him. They will see his face."

Thomas Aquinas, another influential theologian, wrote, "The blessed in heaven possess all things in the Word; for they have God Himself, and by seeing Him, they see all things."

Alternative Christian Views of Heaven

While the traditional view of heaven is widely accepted, alternative Christian perspectives offer different insights.

Eastern Orthodox Perspective

The Eastern Orthodox Church emphasizes the transformative and unifying experience of heaven. They see heaven as participation in the divine nature through the process of theosis, where believers become partakers of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). This view focuses on the continuous growth in holiness and intimacy with God.

Roman Catholic Perspective

The Roman Catholic Church teaches about different degrees of beatific vision. They believe that all the saved will see God and experience eternal joy, but the intensity of this experience can vary based on one's earthly life and spiritual state. The concept of purgatory also plays a role, where souls are purified before entering the fullness of heaven (1 Corinthians 3:15).

Protestant Variations

Within Protestantism, views on heaven can vary significantly. Some emphasize the "already but not yet" aspect, where believers experience a foretaste of heaven now through the Holy Spirit but await the fullness of heaven in the future. Others focus on the physical resurrection and the renewal of creation, aligning closely with the biblical vision of a new heaven and new earth.

How does this help me understand, “So You Are Dead, Now What?”

Heaven is a wonderful place prepared by God for those who love Him. It is full of joy, peace, and the presence of God. Many myths about heaven are incorrect, but the Bible gives us a true glimpse of what it will be like. In heaven, there will be no more suffering, and we will live with God forever. This hope should inspire us to live faithfully and share the good news of Jesus with others. Let’s look forward to heaven and live each day in a way that honors God. Understanding the various Christian views of heaven can deepen our appreciation of this glorious promise and encourage us to live with eternity in mind.

Danny Price 7/11/24 Danny Price 7/11/24

Week #2: Hell

Blog Series Intention Recap

What happens after you die? Is it nothingness? Is it a conversation with St. Peter? Are there really pearly gates?

So You’re Dead, Now What?

This post is part of the series “So You Are Dead, Now What?” Click here to see the rest of the posts.

Let’s jump into Week #2:

Hell exists for God to deal righteously with Satan and unbelievers.

Why it matters:

Hell is a place of righteous judgment.
Hell was created for Satan and his angels.
Hell punishes those who do not believe.
Hell is a place of unimaginable suffering.
Two alternative views to the traditional view of hell are annihilationism and universalism.

Go Deeper

My parents tell a story about me that I have no recollection of happening. We all have these types of stories. However, if you are one of my two sisters and you are reading this post, part of me feels a little bad.

The story goes that I came to know Christ very young. In my best recollection and piecing documents together, I came to know Christ around September 1980. My parents made me wait until the following May to get baptized. So the story goes that sometime after I chose to follow Jesus, I told my sisters of their eternal destination. They were such sinners that unless they chose God right then and there, they were headed to hell. Mom and Dad couldn’t stop it. They would be put in the fire and they would never be able to get out of it. Legend has it, I gained one convert and one was stubborn and told Mom and Dad that I said, “Hell.” The real question I have always wondered. How do you discipline your child for the correct usage of a word? Dam, Hell, etc.

I struggle with the concept of hell. As a firstborn, justice is in my blood. I want fairness. I want rightness. I want my younger siblings to have to deal with the same stuff I did. So for me, hell as a place of punishment for those who don’t choose God (Satan included made since). However, the older I get the less I see it as a place of fairness and more as a place I don’t want to people to experience.

See everyone wonders about what happens after death. Hell is of the most serious topics in the Bible. Understanding why hell exists and what it means for us can change how we live today. The concept of hell has been a topic of theological debate throughout Christian history. While the traditional view of hell as a place of eternal punishment for the wicked is widely accepted, alternative views such as annihilationism and universalism offer different perspectives. This post explores these theological beliefs, providing a comprehensive understanding of the doctrine of hell.

Why Does Hell Exist?

I want to explore three different views of Hell. Theologians are always trying to understand Scripture better. So let’s start with the traditional view of Hell.

Eternal Punishment

The traditional Christian view holds that hell is a place of eternal punishment for those who reject God. This belief is grounded in several key Bible passages. In Matthew 25:46, Jesus speaks of the final judgment, stating, "Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life." Similarly, Revelation 20:10 describes the devil, the beast, and the false prophet being tormented "day and night for ever and ever."

Hell Exists for God to Deal Righteously with Satan

Hell is a place of punishment prepared specifically for Satan and his angels. Matthew 25:41 says, "Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels." Satan has rebelled against God and leads others into sin. Hell ensures that he receives just punishment.

Hell Exists for God to Deal Righteously with Unbelievers

Those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel will also face judgment. 2 Thessalonians 1:8-9 explains, "He will punish those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. They will be punished with everlasting destruction and shut out from the presence of the Lord and the majesty of his power." Hell is a place where God deals justly with unbelievers who have rejected His grace.

Hell Is a Place of Unimaginable Suffering

Jesus used strong language to describe the horrors of hell. In Matthew 5:29, He said, "If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell."

Revelation 14:10-11 provides a vivid picture of hell’s torment: "They will drink of the wine of God's fury, which has been poured full strength into the cup of his wrath. They will be tormented with burning sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and of the Lamb. And the smoke of their torment rises forever and ever. There is no rest day or night."

Hell is often referred to as Gehenna, a place of everlasting punishment. This term comes from the Valley of Hinnom, a place of constant fire and decay outside Jerusalem. Hell’s suffering is far worse and eternal.

The Rich Man and Lazarus

Jesus told a story about a rich man and a poor man named Lazarus in Luke 16:19-31. The rich man lived in luxury, while Lazarus suffered. When they died, Lazarus went to be with Abraham, but the rich man went to hell. A lot of theologians will extrapolate what we think about hell from this story.

The Rich Man’s Experience in Hell

In hell, the rich man was in torment. He saw Lazarus far away with Abraham and begged for relief. "So he called to him, 'Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire'" (Luke 16:24). This story shows that hell is a place of great suffering and regret. The rich man was fully aware of his torment and longed for even a moment of relief.

Lessons from the Other Side

From the story of the rich man and Lazarus, we learn important lessons about hell:

The Rich Man Was Fully Conscious: He was aware of his suffering and remembered his life on earth.
His Eternal Destiny Was Irrevocably Fixed: Once in hell, there was no escape or second chance.
He Knew What He Was Experiencing Was Just: He did not argue about his punishment; he knew it was deserved.
He Pleaded for Someone to Help His Loved Ones: He wanted his family to avoid his fate and know Jesus.

Charles Peace, a notorious criminal, once said, “Sir, I do not share your faith. But if I did—if I believed what you say you believed—then although England were covered with broken glass from coast to coast, I would crawl the length and breadth of it on hand and knee and think the pain worthwhile, just to save a single soul from this eternal hell of which you speak.”

God Doesn’t Want Anyone to Go to Hell

Despite the reality of hell, God’s desire is that no one should perish. 2 Peter 3:9 reminds us, "The Lord is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." God offers everyone the chance to turn to Him and avoid the punishment of hell.

Historical Theological Beliefs on Hell

Early Church Fathers

Early Church Fathers such as Augustine and Tertullian were strong proponents of the eternal punishment view. Augustine, in his seminal work "City of God," argued that the suffering of the damned is unending and just. Tertullian, in his "Apologeticus," vividly described eternal fire reserved for the wicked.

Medieval and Reformation Views

During the medieval period, theologians like Thomas Aquinas reinforced the traditional view. Aquinas, in his "Summa Theologica," described hell as a state of perpetual separation from God, with the damned experiencing continuous suffering. The Reformers, including Martin Luther and John Calvin, also upheld the doctrine of eternal punishment, emphasizing the seriousness of rejecting God's grace.

Alternative Views

Annihilationism

Definition

Annihilationism, or conditional immortality, posits that the wicked will not suffer eternally but will instead be completely destroyed after the final judgment. According to this view, eternal life is a gift given only to the saved, while the unsaved face permanent extinction.

Biblical Support

Annihilationists find support in scriptures like Matthew 10:28, where Jesus warns, "Fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell." They also refer to Romans 6:23, which states, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." Annihilationists argue that "death" here means total destruction rather than eternal torment.

Theological Advocates

Prominent proponents of annihilationism include John Stott and Edward Fudge. John Stott, a respected evangelical leader, argued that eternal conscious torment seems inconsistent with God's love and justice. Edward Fudge's book "The Fire That Consumes" is a thorough defense of annihilationism, providing a detailed examination of biblical texts and historical theology.

Universalism

Definition

Universalism, or universal reconciliation, is the belief that all people will ultimately be saved and reconciled to God. This view holds that God's love and mercy will eventually triumph over judgment, leading to the redemption of all souls, including those initially condemned to hell.

Biblical Support

Universalists often cite passages like 1 Timothy 2:4, which says that God "wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." They also refer to Colossians 1:20, which speaks of God reconciling "all things" to Himself through Christ, making peace through His blood shed on the cross.

Theological Advocates

Early church figures such as Origen and Gregory of Nyssa, as well as contemporary theologians like Karl Barth and Thomas Talbott, have supported universalism. Origen believed in the ultimate restoration of all beings, while Karl Barth emphasized the overwhelming power of God's grace.

Evaluating the Views

Justice and Mercy

Each view of hell attempts to balance God's justice and mercy. The traditional view underscores the seriousness of sin and the just punishment it deserves. Annihilationism emphasizes God's mercy by arguing that the wicked will not suffer forever. Universalism focuses on God's love, suggesting that He will ultimately save all people.

Scriptural Interpretation

The differing views also arise from various interpretations of scripture. The traditional view relies on passages that speak of eternal punishment and unending torment. Annihilationism interprets these passages as metaphorical, with "eternal" referring to the finality of the destruction rather than its duration. Universalism interprets scriptures about God's desire for all to be saved and reconciled as indicating eventual universal redemption.

How does this help me understand, “So You Are Dead, Now What?”

The doctrine of hell is a complex and often debated topic within Christianity. Hell is a place of righteous judgment created for Satan, his angels, and those who reject God. It is a place of unimaginable suffering and eternal regret. The story of the rich man and Lazarus teaches us about the realities of hell and the urgency to turn to Jesus. God does not want anyone to go to hell. He patiently offers us the chance to repent and believe in Jesus.

Understanding the truth about hell should impact how we live today. It should drive us to share the gospel and live in a way that honors God. Knowing what happens after death can help us make wise choices now. Choose Jesus, avoid hell, and live with eternity in mind.

The traditional view of eternal punishment has been the most widely accepted throughout history. However, annihilationism and universalism offer alternative perspectives that also seek to understand the nature of God's justice and mercy. Each view provides valuable insights and challenges us to think deeply about the character of God and the destiny of humanity. As believers, it is essential to study the scriptures, seek God's guidance, and respect differing viewpoints within the Christian community.

Danny Price 7/4/24 Danny Price 7/4/24

Week #1: Everyone Dies

Blog Series Intention Recap

What happens after you die? Is it nothingness? Is it a conversation with St. Peter? Are there really pearly gates?

So You’re Dead, Now What?

This post is part of the series “So You Are Dead, Now What?” Click here to see the rest of the posts.

Let’s jump into Week #1:

What you believe about death and eternity will determine how you live.

Why it matters:

Death is certain.
The soul and body separate.
You will face judgment.
Your beliefs about eternity shape your life today.

Go Deeper

One of my core memories comes from my kindergarten year. In January 1981, my first experience with death came flooding into our family. My “Granny” died. I have vague recollections of life before her death. She always struck me as a short woman. I knew she loved me but she was stern. I learned the word, “switch” from her. But her death rocked my world in a way no one could imagine. I received a few key truths from this moment.

Truth #1 - Anyone can die

Everyone dies. This one hundred percent sucks! The Bible teaches us that death is a part of life. Granny was here one day and gone the next.

Death Is Certain

Hebrews 9:27-28 says, "Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him."

Death is unavoidable. Everyone will face it someday. This verse tells us that after death, we will be judged. Jesus died for our sins so that we can be saved and live with Him forever. We must be ready for this moment.

Truth #2 - The Soul and the Body Separate

The effects of this truth aren’t as obvious as you think. This truth is what causes us to grieve. No longer was Granny’s physical presence part of our lives. During this time, I watched my mom grieve her mom. She had lost her father at a young age and then to lose the other parent meant she no longer had access to the wisdom and love they shared with her.

The Soul and the Body Separate

Jesus said in Matthew 10:28, "Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell."

When we die, our soul leaves our body. Our body stays on earth, but our soul goes to be with God. Jesus promises in John 11:25-26, "...He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die."

Believers in Jesus will live forever with Him. Death is not the end for us. It's the beginning of eternal life with God.

Months before this event, I had chosen to follow Jesus. I knew my Granny believed and followed Jesus. I knew I would see her again according to what I had been taught in the Bible.

Truth #3 - You Will Face Judgment

Hebrews 9:27 tells us that after death comes judgment. Revelation 20:11-12, 15 describes this judgment: "Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it… And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. If anyone's name was not found written in the Book of Life, he was thrown into the lake of fire."

There are two main judgments:

Great White Throne Judgment:
This is for those who did not believe in Jesus. If their names are not in the book of life, they will be thrown into the lake of fire.
Judgment Seat of Christ:
Romans 14:10b and 2 Corinthians 5:10 explain that believers will stand before God's judgment seat. "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad."

Believers will be judged for their actions. Our works will be tested. 1 Corinthians 3:13-15 says, "A person's work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man's work. If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. If it is burned up, he will suffer loss; he himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames."

Rewards for Believers

There are different rewards for believers. The Bible talks about crowns that we can receive:

Incorruptible Crown: For those who are disciplined in their walk with God (1 Corinthians 9:25-27).
Crown of Righteousness: For those who long for Jesus' return (2 Timothy 4:8).
Crown of Rejoicing: For those who lead others to Christ (1 Thessalonians 2:19-20).
Crown of Glory: For those who faithfully serve God (1 Peter 5:4).
Crown of Life: For those who persevere under trials (James 1:12, Revelation 2:10).

How does this help me understand, “So You Are Dead, Now What?”

Reread 1 Corinthians 3:13-15. If you died today and stood at the judgment seat of Christ, when your works and motives are revealed, would you feel good about your life? Why or why not?

We still have time to change. God shows us how to live. We should ask ourselves, "What is God showing me to do differently?" Living with eternity in mind helps us make better choices. It helps us focus on what matters. We should love God and love others. We should share the good news about Jesus with others.

Our house growing up was small. The kitchen sink looked out into the backyard. I remember walking into the as a little boy with my mom standing there. She was crying and I remember thinking how sad that made me feel. Knowing what comes after we die doesn’t always take away the grief of death but it does take away the sting.

When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written:
“Death is swallowed up in victory.”
“O death, where is your victory?
O death, where is your sting?”
I Corinthians 15:54-55

Knowing what happens after we die helps us live better today. Death is certain, but so is eternal life for those who believe in Jesus. Our soul and body will separate, and we will face judgment. Believers will be rewarded for their faithfulness. Let's live each day with eternity in mind, making choices that honor God and reflect our faith in Him.

Danny Price 7/1/24 Danny Price 7/1/24

So You’re Dead, Now What?

Blog Series Intention Recap

What happens after you die? Is it nothingness? Is it a conversation with St. Peter? Are there really pearly gates?

So You’re Dead, Now What?

The afterlife is cloaked in mystery. What happens moments after we die? What is Heaven really like? What about Hell? And does what we do in this world really matter in the next? Join us as we spend four weeks uncovering the life-altering answers to these questions.

This post is the main page of the series “So You’re Dead, Now What?”

Danny Price 6/27/24 Danny Price 6/27/24

Week #4: Subordinationism

Blog Series Intention Recap

Water in three forms? A four-leaf clover? A mystery? The Trinity defies easy explanation, but its beauty is no less real. This four-week series explores the doctrine of the Trinity and reveals how a greater appreciation of the Trinity sheds light on what we understand about the Father’s love, the Son’s gift of salvation, and the Spirit’s invitation to community.

This post is part of the series “Trinity.” Click here to see the rest of the posts.

Let’s jump into Week #4:

Subordinationism is a theological belief that suggests the Son and the Holy Spirit are subordinate to the Father in the Trinity.

Why it matters:

Subordinationism claims the Son and the Holy Spirit are lesser than the Father.
This view is considered incorrect by Christianity.
The Bible teaches that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are co-equal.
Understanding subordinationism helps us appreciate the true nature of the Trinity.

Go Deeper

In Christianity, the Trinity is a central belief that describes God as three persons in one: the Father, the Son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit. Each person is fully God and equal in power, glory, and eternity. However, some early Christians believed in subordinationism, the idea that the Son and the Holy Spirit are subordinate to the Father. This blog post will explore what subordinationism is, why it is considered incorrect, and what the Bible says about the Trinity.

What is Subordinationism?

Subordinationism is a belief that within the Trinity, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are not equal to the Father. Instead, it suggests they are lesser in status or authority. This idea emerged in the early centuries of Christianity as people tried to understand the relationship between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Some thought that since Jesus came to Earth and the Holy Spirit was sent by the Father, they must be lower in rank.

Why Subordinationism considered a Heresy?

Subordinationism is not accepted by mainstream Christianity because it goes against the core teaching of the Trinity. The doctrine of the Trinity states that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are co-equal and co-eternal. This means they are all equally God, without any hierarchy within their relationship. The belief in their equality is essential because it preserves the unity and the divinity of each person in the Trinity.

The Bible provides many verses that support the equality of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Here are a few key examples:

John 1:1: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." This verse shows that Jesus (the Word) is fully God, just as the Father is.
Matthew 28:19: "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." This verse puts the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit on the same level, indicating their equality.
2 Corinthians 13:14: "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all." Here, the three persons of the Trinity are mentioned together, showing their equal importance.

These verses, among others, emphasize that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are equally divine and should be worshipped and honored as such.

The Importance of Rejecting Subordinationism

Rejecting subordinationism is crucial for maintaining a correct understanding of the Trinity. Believing that the Son and the Holy Spirit are lesser than the Father can lead to misunderstandings about God's nature and how we relate to Him. It can also impact how we view Jesus' role in salvation and the Holy Spirit's work in our lives.

By affirming the equality of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, we uphold the true nature of God as revealed in the Bible. This helps us appreciate the unity and diversity within the Trinity and strengthens our faith in the God who is three in one.

Historical Context of Subordinationism

To understand subordinationism better, it's helpful to look at its historical context. In the early centuries of Christianity, there were many debates about the nature of God and Jesus. Some early church leaders, like Arius, taught that Jesus was created by the Father and therefore not equal to Him. This view, known as Arianism, was a form of subordinationism.

The early church recognized the danger of this teaching and addressed it at the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD. The council affirmed that Jesus is "begotten, not made, being of one substance with the Father." This declaration was a crucial step in defining the doctrine of the Trinity and rejecting subordinationism.

The Trinity in Christian Life and Worship

Even today, understanding and rejecting subordinationism is important for Christians. Some groups may still hold views that resemble subordinationism, which can lead to confusion about the nature of God. By studying the Bible and church history, we can better understand why the Trinity is essential to our faith and how to explain it clearly to others.

The doctrine of the Trinity has a deep impact on Christian life and worship. Recognizing the equality of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit helps us appreciate their distinct roles and how they work together in our lives. For example:

In Prayer: We can pray to the Father, through the Son, and in the power of the Holy Spirit. Each person of the Trinity plays a part in our communication with God.
In Salvation: The Father planned our salvation, the Son accomplished it through His death and resurrection, and the Holy Spirit applies it to our lives by transforming our hearts.
In Worship: We worship the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit equally, giving glory to the triune God who is worthy of our praise.

How to Explain the Trinity to Others

Explaining the Trinity can be challenging, especially because it is a divine mystery that goes beyond our full understanding. However, there are some helpful ways to describe it:

Use Analogies: While no analogy is perfect, some can help people grasp the concept. For example, the Trinity can be compared to the sun, which has light, heat, and the sun itself—three distinct aspects, but one sun. But acknowledge no analogy can do everything and help people to understand the need to deal with analogies on a case by case basis.
Emphasize Unity and Distinction: Make it clear that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are distinct persons, yet they are one God. They share the same divine essence but have different roles.
Point to Scripture: Use Bible verses to highlight the Trinity, such as those mentioned earlier. Show how the Bible presents the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as co-equal and co-eternal.

How does this help me understand “Trinity?”

Subordinationism is a theological belief that suggests the Son and the Holy Spirit are subordinate to the Father in the Trinity. However, this view is not accepted by mainstream Christianity because it goes against the core teaching of the Trinity. The Bible teaches that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are co-equal and co-eternal. Understanding and rejecting subordinationism helps us appreciate the true nature of the Trinity and strengthens our faith. By affirming the equality of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, we uphold the true nature of God as revealed in the Bible and grow in our relationship with Him.

Understanding subordinationism and the true nature of the Trinity is vital for Christians. By recognizing the co-equality of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, we uphold the core teachings of our faith and ensure our worship and understanding of God are correct. This knowledge helps us grow closer to God, appreciate His work in our lives, and effectively share our faith with others. Through prayer, Bible study, and worship, we can deepen our relationship with the triune God and live out our faith with confidence and clarity.

Danny Price 6/20/24 Danny Price 6/20/24

Week #3: Trinitarian Heresies

Blog Series Intention Recap

This post is part of the series “Trinity.” Click here to see the rest of the posts.

Let’s jump into Week #3:

Common heresies in Christianity misunderstand the true nature of God, especially the Trinity, leading to false beliefs about Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and salvation.

Why it matters:

Heresies often stem from attempts to simplify or explain the mystery of the Trinity.
Some common heresies include Arianism, Modalism, and Adoptionism.
Saint Patrick’s analogies of water and the shamrock illustrate both attempts and pitfalls in explaining the Trinity.
Recognizing and rejecting heresies helps us uphold our Christian faith.

Go Deeper

Christianity teaches that God is one in three persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit. This belief is called the Trinity. However, some people have misunderstood this and created false teachings, called heresies. Understanding these heresies can help us better appreciate and defend our faith.

What Are Heresies?

Heresies are false beliefs that go against the accepted teachings of the Christian faith. They often try to make the complex ideas of Christianity simpler but end up distorting the truth. From water to the three-leaf clover, people have tried everything. I love this video from Lutheran Satire. It makes me last every time I watch it.

Get with the program, Patrick. Analogies all fail at some point. Do they help or hurt? Let’s recap a few of the heresies.

Arianism: Denying Jesus' Divinity

Arianism is a heresy that teaches Jesus is not fully God. Arius, a priest from the 4th century, said that Jesus was a created being and not eternal like the Father. He believed that Jesus was a special creature but not equal to God.

Why It's Wrong:
The Bible clearly teaches that Jesus is fully God. In John 1:1, it says, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." Jesus Himself said, "I and the Father are one" (John 10:30). If Jesus were not fully God, He could not save us from our sins.

Modalism: Confusing the Persons of the Trinity

Modalism (also known as Sabellianism) is a heresy that says God is one person who appears in different forms or modes. Sometimes He is the Father, sometimes He is the Son, and sometimes He is the Holy Spirit. But these are just different modes of one person.

Why It's Wrong:
The Bible shows that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are distinct persons who interact with each other. At Jesus' baptism, the Father speaks from heaven, the Son is baptized, and the Holy Spirit descends like a dove (Matthew 3:16-17). This scene shows all three persons of the Trinity at the same time, not just one person in different modes.

Adoptionism: Misunderstanding Jesus' Sonship

Adoptionism is a heresy that teaches Jesus was a regular human who God adopted at His baptism or resurrection. It suggests that Jesus became God's Son because of His good life and special mission.

Why It's Wrong:
The Bible teaches that Jesus is the Son of God from all eternity. In John 1:14, it says, "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us." This means that Jesus, who is the eternal Word, became human. He did not become the Son of God; He has always been the Son of God.

Saint Patrick’s Analogies: Helpful or Harmful?

Saint Patrick, the missionary to Ireland, used simple examples to explain the Trinity. Two famous analogies are water and the shamrock. While these can be helpful, they also have limitations and can unintentionally support heresies.

The Water Analogy

Saint Patrick explained the Trinity using the example of water. Water can exist in three forms: solid (ice), liquid (water), and gas (steam). This analogy is meant to show that God is one but exists in three persons.

Limitation:
This analogy can lead to Modalism, as it suggests that God is one substance appearing in different forms. It does not adequately show the distinct persons of the Trinity who exist simultaneously.

The Shamrock Analogy

Another example Saint Patrick used is the shamrock, a three-leaf clover. He explained that just as the shamrock has three leaves on one stem, the Trinity has three persons in one God.

Limitation:
This analogy can suggest Partialism, a heresy that says the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are parts of God rather than each being fully God. The Trinity is not like a divided shamrock but three persons who each fully share the one divine nature.

How does this help me understand “Trinity?”

Well, why didn’t you just say so, Patrick? If you haven’t watched the above video from Luthern Satire, do it now. If you have, then the following statement will make sense.

“The Trinity is a mystery that cannot be comprehended by human reason but is understood by faith and is best confessed in the words of the Athanasian Creed which states that we worship one God in Trinity, and Trinity in Unity; neither confounding the Persons: nor dividing the Substance. That we are compelled by the Christian faith to confess that each distinct person is God and Lord and that the deity of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is one equal in glory, coequal in majesty.”

The mystery of the Trinity refers to the Christian belief that God exists as three distinct persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—yet remains one essence. This concept is beyond our human comprehension. We should contemplate how this divine mystery transcends our logical understanding of personhood and unity. Each person of the Trinity is fully God, co-equal and co-eternal, participating in the same divine nature. This mystery emphasizes the depth and complexity of God's nature, inviting believers to approach with reverence and faith, acknowledging that some aspects of God's existence are beyond human explanation.

So why is this important to me? Understanding and rejecting heresies is important because it helps us maintain our Christian faith and heritage. Here are some key reasons:

Protect Belief (Orthodoxy): Knowing the truth about God helps us worship Him rightly and live according to His will.
Strengthen Faith: When we understand why heresies are wrong, our faith becomes stronger and more resilient.
Share the Gospel (Orthopraxis): Clear knowledge of the Trinity helps us explain our faith to others accurately and effectively.

Heresies often arise from attempts to simplify or explain the mystery of the Trinity. However, these false teachings distort the true nature of God. By studying common heresies like Arianism, Modalism, and Adoptionism, and recognizing the limitations of analogies like those of Saint Patrick, we can better understand and defend our faith. The Trinity is a complex but essential doctrine that shows us our God's unique and wonderful nature. By rejecting heresies and embracing the true teachings of the Bible, we grow closer to God and live out our faith more fully.

Danny Price 6/16/24 Danny Price 6/16/24

Father’s Day: Theology Proper - The Study of the Father

Blog Series Intention Recap

This post is part of the series “Trinity.” Click here to see the rest of the posts.

Let’s jump into this Special Edition:

Theology Proper is the study of God’s nature and attributes, forming the foundation for understanding Christology (the study of Christ) and Pneumatology (the study of the Holy Spirit).

Why it matters:

Theology Proper focuses on who God is and His attributes.
Studying Theology Proper involves reading the Bible, prayer, and learning from trusted teachers.
Christology and Pneumatology build on Theology Proper by exploring the roles of Jesus and the Holy Spirit.
Knowing Theology Proper helps us grow in our faith and relationship with God.

Go Deeper

Theology Proper is a big term that means studying God Himself—His nature, attributes, and character. It is the foundation of our understanding of who God is. By knowing more about God, we can better understand other parts of our faith, like Jesus and the Holy Spirit.

What is Theology Proper?

Theology Proper is a part of systematic theology that focuses on God’s nature and attributes. Systematic theology is an organized way of studying the Bible and its teachings. Theology Proper looks at questions like: Who is God? What is He like? How does He relate to us?

The Attributes of God

To understand Theology Proper, we need to look at God’s attributes. These are qualities that describe who God is. Some of these attributes are:

Omniscience: God knows everything.
Omnipotence: God is all-powerful.
Omnipresence: God is everywhere at once.
Eternal: God has no beginning or end.
Immutable: God never changes.
Holy: God is perfectly good and pure.
Loving: God cares deeply for His creation.

These attributes help us know what God is like. For example, knowing that God is loving helps us trust Him and feel secure in His care.

How Do We Study Theology Proper?

Studying Theology Proper involves several methods. Here are some ways to learn more about God:

Reading the Bible: The Bible is God’s Word and the primary source of our knowledge about Him. By reading and studying the Bible, we learn about God’s character and His actions in history.
Prayer: Talking to God in prayer helps us grow closer to Him. As we pray, we can ask God to reveal more about Himself to us.
Learning from Teachers: Pastors, theologians, and Christian authors can help us understand complex ideas about God. They explain difficult concepts in ways that are easier to grasp.
Worship and Reflection: Worshiping God through songs, hymns, and quiet reflection helps us focus on His greatness and love.

Relationship to Christology

Christology is the study of Jesus Christ, who is God the Son. Understanding Theology Proper helps us understand Christology because Jesus is fully God. Here are some key points:

Incarnation: Jesus is God who became human. Knowing God’s attributes helps us see the importance of Jesus’ birth.
Life and Ministry: Jesus’ actions and teachings reflect God’s nature. Studying His life shows us what God is like.
Death and Resurrection: Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross and His resurrection demonstrate God’s love and power. Understanding God’s attributes helps us appreciate what Jesus did for us.

Relationship to Pneumatology

Pneumatology is the study of the Holy Spirit, who is also fully God. Theology Proper helps us understand Pneumatology in several ways:

Role of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit works in our lives to guide, comfort, and empower us. Knowing God’s attributes helps us see how the Holy Spirit acts according to God’s nature.
Indwelling Presence: The Holy Spirit lives within believers, showing God’s omnipresence and personal care.
Gifts and Fruit: The Holy Spirit gives spiritual gifts to believers and produces fruit like love, joy, and peace. These reflect God’s attributes.

The Importance of Theology Proper

Knowing Theology Proper is important for several reasons:

Deepens Our Faith: Understanding who God is strengthens our faith and helps us trust Him more.
Guides Our Actions: Knowing God’s attributes helps us live in a way that pleases Him. For example, knowing God is holy encourages us to live holy lives.
Improves Our Worship: When we know more about God, our worship becomes more meaningful. We can praise Him for specific attributes and actions.
Helps Us Share Our Faith: Understanding God’s nature helps us explain our faith to others. We can share who God is and why He is worthy of worship.

How does this help me better understand “The Trinity?”

Theology Proper is the study of God’s nature and attributes. It is the foundation for understanding Christology and Pneumatology, helping us know more about Jesus and the Holy Spirit. By studying Theology Proper, we can deepen our faith, guide our actions, improve our worship, and share our faith with others. Understanding who God is helps us grow closer to Him and live out our faith in meaningful ways.