Bible Study for Children presents a clear understanding in easy to understand formats for young people. Some sites online offer a free lesson to try before buying. Children are capable of understanding and grasping the wonderful lessons taught in God's word. This is an essential tool for learning and growing in the Lord. Youth teachers and parents or anyone who is in a position to teach children may use programs offered on the Internet. Bible study for children may also be used independently. Sites that offer Bible study for kids are specialized or customized with teaching plans included. Complete curriculums are available for subscriptions up to one year. Curriculums offered for Bible studies are usually based upon grade levels. Some Bible study programs are accessible online or may be provided through hard copy. Curriculums may also include a devotional for the child to work on independently in their quiet time. Some journals include daily scripture readings and prayer as well as space to write their personal thoughts. Holiday volumes are available on many sites and will help a child to understand the Christmas story.
Programs online have a variety of links available for children to explore and learn. With so many different learning styles and changing of personal interests over the years it is important to offer a variety of options to keep kids interested. Bible study tools and resources are included with lessons. Some of these sites offer Bible study for children free. Clicking on resource links will prove very useful in study. Some programs begin with scripture and a question that elaborates on the scripture. The question is explored as children discover God has a plan for their life. Through his word, God reveals his love for children and that such is the kingdom of heaven. Many Bible study for children programs include prayer before teaching. Some organizations promote communication between the child and them, through email. They encourage questions and correspondence. Subjects covered might include historical information about God's word. Understanding that the Bible has many authors from different time periods might to help understand the information being studied.
This information usually helps answer questions from a child's perspective. Learning through scripture memorization is used through some Bible study curriculums for children. Some organizations online are created especially for ministry to kids. Their ultimate goal is to teach young people about Christ and how to apply the teachings of Christ to their everyday lives. Learning how to implement teachings into busy schedules by thinking about biblical principles frequently. Understanding that life may have a totally different perspective when daily issues are addressed with the question, "What would Jesus do?" Children encounter situations everyday that may be difficult. Teachings through Bible study for kids will present scenarios that are encountered by youth everyday. Understanding the application of biblical teachings when difficult situations arise will help a child experience God in their lives. It will help them to understand that God is there, ever present to help them in any situation that might be encountered.
Activities are usually included with online Bible study for children programs. Activities may include printable decals and bookmarks. There are word search activities and clip art on available links through various sites. Some sites include downloadable wallpaper and screensavers. Stories to read may be included with Bible study programs online. Various teachers' tools with suggestions on presenting teaching material are available. Some sites have frequently asked questions based upon different subjects such as water baptism, faith, salvation, and many others. There are resources available that usually include a commentary, concordance, dictionary, and encyclopedia. Other links associated with Bible study for kids are games and puzzles; maps and photos and e-books. Children will love clicking on sites to play the games and find interesting activities that are designed towards learning about God's word.
Controversial issues are located on some online. One such issue is creation verses evolution. This might be a very helpful site to a child who has learned about creation from their parents and then evolution is being taught in school. This poses some very serious questions in a child's mind.
To help the child to better understand the truth about these issues is very important. The arguments for both sides may be presented and observations are usually included. It is important to teach a child that God's word is the final authority for any question that comes up. Pray with a child who is confused about controversial issues and offer time and study with the child to help him or her understand the truth. "But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 19:14) Find a good Bible study for kids site online and encourage children to spend time exploring and learning.
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/biblestudy
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Bible Prophecy on the End Times
Volumes of information about Bible prophecy on end times is available to visitors in bookstores. Many consider end times prophecy one of the most fascinating in the entire Bible! This is one reason why the subject is so prolific in the stores. Another reason many books are written about the end times, is because understanding prophecy is very difficult. Viewpoints abound from those who have many degrees and years of experience, to those who have been in the ministry a short while. Much of the writings in Daniel and Revelation can be understood, and much of it is cloudy due to the many visions John experiences. Those visions could be literal descriptions, or Johns best effort to describe happenings in his dreams that he could not understand, due to the fact that they occur so far into the future.
Each contemporary author who writes about end times prophecy has a different reason for producing an article, sermon or book. Some may focus on one aspect of prophecy in particular, such as when Christians will be caught up to be with Christ when He finally comes back to judge the Earth. This is often referred to as the rapture. Popular paperback books by a famous clergyman have been written about those who will be left behind when the rapture occurs. These books look at Bible prophecy on end times from a dispensational point of view. That is, many Christians have been taught that the book of Revelation is divided up into different "dispensations" or times in history wherein certain judgments are carried out upon the earth. Dispensational Christians believe that saints will be taken off the Earth and spared from the trials to come upon the Earth. Other Christians believe that the saints will go through the tribulation, because God has never prevented Christians from experiencing tribulation and persecution. In fact, in the letter to the church in Ephesus, referenced in Chapter 2, verse 10 of Revelation, God says "Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life".
Other Christian writers who focus on Bible prophecy on end times enjoy writing about what is referred to as the post-millennial viewpoint. Post-millennialism states that today's Christians are already living in the period following the millennium, which is described in the Bible as the period of time coming after Christ returns to judge the Earth. Some Christians don't believe there will be a millennial period at all. This is referred to as millennialism. However, the majority of Christians believe the time we live in right now is the pre-millennial period, or the time before the millennium occurs.
One cannot escape the study of Bible prophecy on end times without discussion the Great Tribulation. During the Great Tribulation, there will be a time of trouble on the Earth like no one has ever seen or experienced since the beginning of man's time on the Earth. Judgments are poured out on the Earth, people will be cursing God because of them, and many will come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. A one-world government will be organized and all people will be caused to receive a mark in their forehead or hand, without which they can neither buy nor sell. It isn't hard to conceive of this today, because politicians continually talk about a one-world government that is quickly coming. Also, corporations are developing the technology needed to "mark" people with their individual information in the form of implanted electronic chips placed under the skin. This will serve as the sole means of electronic funds transfers and no currency will be needed. Without the chip, no one will be able to buy or sell. This technology is currently being used to identify criminals in some places, and for identification of pets and livestock. It won't be long before this is transferred to people.
Sermons from the Bible on end times prophecy are expounded from pulpits in order to warn non-Christians about the doom about to befall them if Christ's free gift of salvation isn't received. If a person is open to receiving the truth, most likely they will not be turned aside by this information. Some call it the "turn or burn" message. People who are offended by this type of message will turn away, but a small seed of interest may be planted in their hearts. Hopefully this is the case. However, the Christian is to tell the good news, not force people to listen to it. God will draw those to Himself who are predestined to receive it. While He is not willing for anyone to die in their sins, He also made mankind with a free will, to make up their own minds. God doesn't want to force anyone to accept Him, but that they would worship Him freely, with a joyful heart. Those who are already Christians can benefit from messages on end times prophecy to check themselves to be sure they are ready for His return. Many believe this will occur in the near future - perhaps in our lifetime.
Studying Bible prophecy on end times will always reveal something new the Christian student has never seen before, if the Holy Spirit chooses to reveal it. One thing is certain, the outcome has already been decided, and the decision is for victory over Satan, culminating in the eternal reign of Christ on the new Earth. You won't find an ending in a book more exciting than that!
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/biblestudy
Each contemporary author who writes about end times prophecy has a different reason for producing an article, sermon or book. Some may focus on one aspect of prophecy in particular, such as when Christians will be caught up to be with Christ when He finally comes back to judge the Earth. This is often referred to as the rapture. Popular paperback books by a famous clergyman have been written about those who will be left behind when the rapture occurs. These books look at Bible prophecy on end times from a dispensational point of view. That is, many Christians have been taught that the book of Revelation is divided up into different "dispensations" or times in history wherein certain judgments are carried out upon the earth. Dispensational Christians believe that saints will be taken off the Earth and spared from the trials to come upon the Earth. Other Christians believe that the saints will go through the tribulation, because God has never prevented Christians from experiencing tribulation and persecution. In fact, in the letter to the church in Ephesus, referenced in Chapter 2, verse 10 of Revelation, God says "Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life".
Other Christian writers who focus on Bible prophecy on end times enjoy writing about what is referred to as the post-millennial viewpoint. Post-millennialism states that today's Christians are already living in the period following the millennium, which is described in the Bible as the period of time coming after Christ returns to judge the Earth. Some Christians don't believe there will be a millennial period at all. This is referred to as millennialism. However, the majority of Christians believe the time we live in right now is the pre-millennial period, or the time before the millennium occurs.
One cannot escape the study of Bible prophecy on end times without discussion the Great Tribulation. During the Great Tribulation, there will be a time of trouble on the Earth like no one has ever seen or experienced since the beginning of man's time on the Earth. Judgments are poured out on the Earth, people will be cursing God because of them, and many will come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. A one-world government will be organized and all people will be caused to receive a mark in their forehead or hand, without which they can neither buy nor sell. It isn't hard to conceive of this today, because politicians continually talk about a one-world government that is quickly coming. Also, corporations are developing the technology needed to "mark" people with their individual information in the form of implanted electronic chips placed under the skin. This will serve as the sole means of electronic funds transfers and no currency will be needed. Without the chip, no one will be able to buy or sell. This technology is currently being used to identify criminals in some places, and for identification of pets and livestock. It won't be long before this is transferred to people.
Sermons from the Bible on end times prophecy are expounded from pulpits in order to warn non-Christians about the doom about to befall them if Christ's free gift of salvation isn't received. If a person is open to receiving the truth, most likely they will not be turned aside by this information. Some call it the "turn or burn" message. People who are offended by this type of message will turn away, but a small seed of interest may be planted in their hearts. Hopefully this is the case. However, the Christian is to tell the good news, not force people to listen to it. God will draw those to Himself who are predestined to receive it. While He is not willing for anyone to die in their sins, He also made mankind with a free will, to make up their own minds. God doesn't want to force anyone to accept Him, but that they would worship Him freely, with a joyful heart. Those who are already Christians can benefit from messages on end times prophecy to check themselves to be sure they are ready for His return. Many believe this will occur in the near future - perhaps in our lifetime.
Studying Bible prophecy on end times will always reveal something new the Christian student has never seen before, if the Holy Spirit chooses to reveal it. One thing is certain, the outcome has already been decided, and the decision is for victory over Satan, culminating in the eternal reign of Christ on the new Earth. You won't find an ending in a book more exciting than that!
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/biblestudy
Thursday, February 5, 2009
The Book of Revelation
The future is the fascinating subject in a Bible study on the book of Revelations. Reading and researching this book is similar to getting a sneak preview of the end of the world before it ever comes to pass! A study of this portion of scripture reveals how God views churches, Christians and non-Christians at the end of time, and reveals what will become of all of them. For those who do not know, this book was written by the prophet John, while incarcerated on the Isle of Patmos. Here, our Lord gives John many visions of Heaven, Hell and of how a new Heaven and Earth will be created. Throughout this time, God demonstrates awesome power through His angels and judgments via the seven seals. Now this is exciting reading!
When a Bible study on the book of Revelations is performed in parallel with a Daniel Bible study, the student will be able to detect several instances of similar prophetic visions. For example in the book of Daniel in the Old Testament, he discusses the great beasts that will devour the Earth and break it into pieces. In the book of Revelation, refer to chapter 13 verses 1 - 6. There it talks about the Beast that stands on the sea which has seven heads and ten horns. There is a direct reference here back to Daniel. In another chapter, Daniel is commanded by King
Nebuchadnezzar to interpret a dream he has about an image made of gold, silver, bronze and clay. This passage refers directly to chapter 16 in Revelation, which speaks of the same image. Clearly, these two books speak about the same end time prophecies, but are articulated by two prophets born hundreds of years apart!
In a Daniel Bible study, the student will come to understand that this book spans 70 years of Jewish captivity in Babylon. Daniel was very young, just a teen, when God called him to prophesy to both the Jews and Gentiles about his purpose for the Earth. The book reveals that God is very active in our lives, and has been since the beginning of time. It will be the same at the end of time as well. This prophet must have had great faith and boldness to go and preach in this manner to a foreign nation. Our Daniel Bible study begins with a narrative about how Nebuchadnezzar came to power in Babylon, and how Daniel came to find favor with this king. During this time, God provided Daniel with much knowledge and wisdom about great writings and visions.
Also revealed in a Bible study on the book of Revelations, is the fact that John the prophet was very old, contrasting the youth of Daniel and his prophecies. Perhaps this is God's way of showing both the young and old perspective of purpose. Daniel found favor with those to whom he preached, and John fell into disfavor with those to whom he preached. One was free, one was jailed. In both situations, God was able to send His message, regardless of the circumstances. Doesn't this show the omnipotence and omnipresence of God in a powerful way? Certainly! The meaning of the Revelation is unveiling. Here God brings to an end the history of humankind as we know it, and ushers in eternal existence and fellowship with Him, who knows Him as their Savior.
Throughout the Bible study on the book of Revelations, several divisions of the book become evident to the student. First, John discusses the seven churches: the church that doesn't show love anymore; the church which is persecuted, the church that makes exceptions to its hurt; the church which allows gross immorality; the faithful church in Philadelphia and finally, the Laodicean church, which is so lukewarm, God says He will spit them out of His mouth! Then, the story progresses to John's vision taking place in Heaven, where he sees God's throne, angels and elders worshipping around the throne. Then the Lamb of God breaks open the scrolls. The entire time all in Heaven continually worship about the Lord's throne. The breaking of the seals releases the horsemen of the apocalypse upon the earth to do His bidding, and causes men to either worship or curse Him. Then we witness the blowing of the trumpets, the death of the two witnesses, the vision or sign of the great woman who birthed a child. Now comes the description of the Anti-Christ, the bowl judgments, the fall of Babylon, Satan bound for 1000 years, and then the great white throne judgment. At last the book ends when the New Jerusalem comes down out of Heaven, a new Heaven and Earth now exist, and God reigns forever. Wow. Now movie epic can ever match that kind of script! That is why the Bible is one of the world's best sellers of all time.
A careful Daniel Bible study could yield the same excitement for the Bible scholar, because the importance of this book is on a par with the book of Revelation due to the many visions and prophecies Daniel provides to all those Kings he was privileged to know and witness to. As Daniel warns the Old Testament Kings of God's impending judgment, so too does John warn all of mankind through his authoring of the book of Revelation. Lastly, one of the most wonderful things about studying the Bible is that, no matter how many times it is opened to read, it is always fresh and new. Time to start studying!
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/biblestudy
When a Bible study on the book of Revelations is performed in parallel with a Daniel Bible study, the student will be able to detect several instances of similar prophetic visions. For example in the book of Daniel in the Old Testament, he discusses the great beasts that will devour the Earth and break it into pieces. In the book of Revelation, refer to chapter 13 verses 1 - 6. There it talks about the Beast that stands on the sea which has seven heads and ten horns. There is a direct reference here back to Daniel. In another chapter, Daniel is commanded by King
Nebuchadnezzar to interpret a dream he has about an image made of gold, silver, bronze and clay. This passage refers directly to chapter 16 in Revelation, which speaks of the same image. Clearly, these two books speak about the same end time prophecies, but are articulated by two prophets born hundreds of years apart!
In a Daniel Bible study, the student will come to understand that this book spans 70 years of Jewish captivity in Babylon. Daniel was very young, just a teen, when God called him to prophesy to both the Jews and Gentiles about his purpose for the Earth. The book reveals that God is very active in our lives, and has been since the beginning of time. It will be the same at the end of time as well. This prophet must have had great faith and boldness to go and preach in this manner to a foreign nation. Our Daniel Bible study begins with a narrative about how Nebuchadnezzar came to power in Babylon, and how Daniel came to find favor with this king. During this time, God provided Daniel with much knowledge and wisdom about great writings and visions.
Also revealed in a Bible study on the book of Revelations, is the fact that John the prophet was very old, contrasting the youth of Daniel and his prophecies. Perhaps this is God's way of showing both the young and old perspective of purpose. Daniel found favor with those to whom he preached, and John fell into disfavor with those to whom he preached. One was free, one was jailed. In both situations, God was able to send His message, regardless of the circumstances. Doesn't this show the omnipotence and omnipresence of God in a powerful way? Certainly! The meaning of the Revelation is unveiling. Here God brings to an end the history of humankind as we know it, and ushers in eternal existence and fellowship with Him, who knows Him as their Savior.
Throughout the Bible study on the book of Revelations, several divisions of the book become evident to the student. First, John discusses the seven churches: the church that doesn't show love anymore; the church which is persecuted, the church that makes exceptions to its hurt; the church which allows gross immorality; the faithful church in Philadelphia and finally, the Laodicean church, which is so lukewarm, God says He will spit them out of His mouth! Then, the story progresses to John's vision taking place in Heaven, where he sees God's throne, angels and elders worshipping around the throne. Then the Lamb of God breaks open the scrolls. The entire time all in Heaven continually worship about the Lord's throne. The breaking of the seals releases the horsemen of the apocalypse upon the earth to do His bidding, and causes men to either worship or curse Him. Then we witness the blowing of the trumpets, the death of the two witnesses, the vision or sign of the great woman who birthed a child. Now comes the description of the Anti-Christ, the bowl judgments, the fall of Babylon, Satan bound for 1000 years, and then the great white throne judgment. At last the book ends when the New Jerusalem comes down out of Heaven, a new Heaven and Earth now exist, and God reigns forever. Wow. Now movie epic can ever match that kind of script! That is why the Bible is one of the world's best sellers of all time.
A careful Daniel Bible study could yield the same excitement for the Bible scholar, because the importance of this book is on a par with the book of Revelation due to the many visions and prophecies Daniel provides to all those Kings he was privileged to know and witness to. As Daniel warns the Old Testament Kings of God's impending judgment, so too does John warn all of mankind through his authoring of the book of Revelation. Lastly, one of the most wonderful things about studying the Bible is that, no matter how many times it is opened to read, it is always fresh and new. Time to start studying!
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/biblestudy
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Compare Bible Translations
The King James Version of the Bible, printed in 1611, was one of the first English translations of the scriptures ever accomplished. This text took four years to translate, starting in 1607. However, the English King James Bible is not the very first translation of the scriptures printed. The English version is considered the "Authorized Version", and utilizes the English in use during the 1600's. This English scripture is often referred to as "the King's English" which uses "thee" and "thou" for the modern word "you", and for present-tense words, adds "eth" at the end of adjectives and verbs. Today Christians often use the King James Version of the Bible as the anchor text when the objective is to compare Bible translations. Interestingly, the word "Bible" is never used in the original ancient texts, but rather the word "Bible" is referred to as "the Holy Scriptures", "the Word", and "the Law and the Prophets", among other references.
To compare Bible translations with a modern view, think about looking at the very first translation of the original holy texts, which was completed about 285 B.C., and was translated from Hebrew into Greek. Later on, about 400 A.D., the "Vulgate" came into existence, and was a translation of both the Old Testament and New Testament into Latin. Not until over 800 years later did the Roman Catholic Church divide the scriptures into verses and chapters. The reason many Protestant churches use only the King James, is that it was the first English "Authorized Version", and great care was taken in the translation. There are many other translations of the scriptures which have appeared in modern times that are just as good, and actually help the reader extract deeper meaning, without having to wade through the meaning of the more difficult to read King James scriptures.
Most advantageous is to retrieve varying texts of the scriptures in order to compare Bible translations. Doing so can prepare Christians for questions that may arise when speaking to non-Christians about the veracity of the various translations available. Understanding many versions will greatly aid scripture students, providing several sources from which to draw scriptural comparisons. One of the first modern works completed was undertaken in 1966 by a group of Biblical scholars, and was underwritten by the New York Bible Society. Scholars from five countries contributed their efforts and included several denominations, some of which were Baptists, Wesleyans, Presbyterians, Evangelical Free and Assemblies of God. Including so many denominations ensures that one denomination in particular does not dominate the translation. This first twentieth-century translation is called "The New International Version" of the Word. When translating this version, Hebrew, Greek and Aramaic texts were used. The translators were careful to keep intact the meaning that the original authors intended to convey to the reader, and ensured that sentence structure and grammar were also true to form.
The Oxford Annotated Bible with The Apocrypha Revised Standard Version can also be used to compare translations. This is the first translation accepted by both Protestants and Catholics in the English speaking world. There are books called "The Apocrypha" which are appended to the end of this work, and which are not considered to be the authentic God-inspired scriptures, or "canon". The Apocrypha is valuable in aiding readers to understand the inspired books in scripture. Those who read the Word should keep in mind the following two verses: "Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost" (2 Peter 1:20-21 KJV).
A decidedly free, rather than literal translation came about beginning in the late 1940's. The New English Bible-New Testament was translated directly from the Greek New Testament by a joint committee of delegates from the Church of Scotland, Church of England, Baptist, Methodist and what is called the Congregationalist churches. The desire was to create a new translation, keeping as much as possible to the original meaning of the Greek, while also utilizing other early Christian writings and early translations of the Greek from other languages. Another desired end-result was to follow as closely as possible, the original meaning or intent of what the author meant to say, rather than a word-for-word translation. This is why the text is considered to be a free translation. These translators considered that the King James Version of the Bible was flawed, because the scribes who wrote the pages over and over again were subject to many possibilities of error. Therefore, if this translation is used, the student should take care to remember that when the time comes to compare Bible translations, the New English Bible-New Testament will not follow the more literal translations as closely.
There is a very interesting modern translation called the "New Testament in Modern Speech" published in 1978, which was first introduced at Winona Lake with timid acceptance, but accepted it was. The community to which this work was introduced was considered a staunch King James Version group of user, and so acceptance by this group of Christians was considered an acid-test of usability. The modern language in this version was refreshing, and provided an insightful view of the scriptures which previously had not been available. Just as the King James Version of the Bible somewhat reflects the culture of that time, so the New Testament in Modern Times reflects the culture of today, inculcating the benefits of the language currently used among most modern English speaking people. It has the benefit of using word pictures to more deeply describe what was literally translated into English before now.
The few versions we have used here to compare Bible translations are but a drop in the bucket. There are many interesting and scholarly versions available for serious study, and so the student can confidently choose any and find the one that suits according to taste and need.
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/biblestudy
To compare Bible translations with a modern view, think about looking at the very first translation of the original holy texts, which was completed about 285 B.C., and was translated from Hebrew into Greek. Later on, about 400 A.D., the "Vulgate" came into existence, and was a translation of both the Old Testament and New Testament into Latin. Not until over 800 years later did the Roman Catholic Church divide the scriptures into verses and chapters. The reason many Protestant churches use only the King James, is that it was the first English "Authorized Version", and great care was taken in the translation. There are many other translations of the scriptures which have appeared in modern times that are just as good, and actually help the reader extract deeper meaning, without having to wade through the meaning of the more difficult to read King James scriptures.
Most advantageous is to retrieve varying texts of the scriptures in order to compare Bible translations. Doing so can prepare Christians for questions that may arise when speaking to non-Christians about the veracity of the various translations available. Understanding many versions will greatly aid scripture students, providing several sources from which to draw scriptural comparisons. One of the first modern works completed was undertaken in 1966 by a group of Biblical scholars, and was underwritten by the New York Bible Society. Scholars from five countries contributed their efforts and included several denominations, some of which were Baptists, Wesleyans, Presbyterians, Evangelical Free and Assemblies of God. Including so many denominations ensures that one denomination in particular does not dominate the translation. This first twentieth-century translation is called "The New International Version" of the Word. When translating this version, Hebrew, Greek and Aramaic texts were used. The translators were careful to keep intact the meaning that the original authors intended to convey to the reader, and ensured that sentence structure and grammar were also true to form.
The Oxford Annotated Bible with The Apocrypha Revised Standard Version can also be used to compare translations. This is the first translation accepted by both Protestants and Catholics in the English speaking world. There are books called "The Apocrypha" which are appended to the end of this work, and which are not considered to be the authentic God-inspired scriptures, or "canon". The Apocrypha is valuable in aiding readers to understand the inspired books in scripture. Those who read the Word should keep in mind the following two verses: "Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost" (2 Peter 1:20-21 KJV).
A decidedly free, rather than literal translation came about beginning in the late 1940's. The New English Bible-New Testament was translated directly from the Greek New Testament by a joint committee of delegates from the Church of Scotland, Church of England, Baptist, Methodist and what is called the Congregationalist churches. The desire was to create a new translation, keeping as much as possible to the original meaning of the Greek, while also utilizing other early Christian writings and early translations of the Greek from other languages. Another desired end-result was to follow as closely as possible, the original meaning or intent of what the author meant to say, rather than a word-for-word translation. This is why the text is considered to be a free translation. These translators considered that the King James Version of the Bible was flawed, because the scribes who wrote the pages over and over again were subject to many possibilities of error. Therefore, if this translation is used, the student should take care to remember that when the time comes to compare Bible translations, the New English Bible-New Testament will not follow the more literal translations as closely.
There is a very interesting modern translation called the "New Testament in Modern Speech" published in 1978, which was first introduced at Winona Lake with timid acceptance, but accepted it was. The community to which this work was introduced was considered a staunch King James Version group of user, and so acceptance by this group of Christians was considered an acid-test of usability. The modern language in this version was refreshing, and provided an insightful view of the scriptures which previously had not been available. Just as the King James Version of the Bible somewhat reflects the culture of that time, so the New Testament in Modern Times reflects the culture of today, inculcating the benefits of the language currently used among most modern English speaking people. It has the benefit of using word pictures to more deeply describe what was literally translated into English before now.
The few versions we have used here to compare Bible translations are but a drop in the bucket. There are many interesting and scholarly versions available for serious study, and so the student can confidently choose any and find the one that suits according to taste and need.
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/biblestudy
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Seven Lessons from The Psalm's
Lesson 1: A Blessed and Fruitful
LifeScripture to Read: Psalm 1:16
The first psalm is a fitting introduction to the entire Psalter. It can truly be called a wisdom psalm because it presents two distinct paths we may choose in life—the wise or godly path, and the path of the wicked or ungodly. But clearly, only one of these paths leads us into the delight of learning and obeying God’s Law and enjoying His blessing on our lives. That person is “blessed” who avoids the kind of casual (suggested by “walk”) or intimate (suggested by “sit”) association with mockers that may lead one astray.
The “delight” we find in God’s Word is a strong theme in Jewish teaching. While to others the commands of the Torah may seem like a burden, they are the delight of the pious Jew. In Psalm 1––and indeed, in all of the psalms—God offers mankind the choice between a fruitful, prosperous life or one that leaves nothing behind but chaff. There is an interesting parallel between verse 3 and Jeremiah 17:7–8. Both passages speak of a tree that draws its life from the water by which it is planted. This is the picture of the person who rests upon God and His provision.
Lesson 2: The Law of the Lord
Scripture to Read: Psalm 19:114
Psalm 19 is another passage of Scripture that is filled with wisdom. These verses also instruct the reader how to respond properly to God as both the Creator and the Lawgiver. Verses 1–6 extol the grandeur of God for the way He stretched out the heavens as the Creator of all that is seen. The universe is majestic, but it reveals an even more majestic God. The dominant feature in the visible universe is the sun, which was worshiped by many nations around ancient Israel. But here we learn the true God has set the sun in its place and is its Master.
Contemplating the revelation of God in nature led David to meditate on God’s revelation in the Law, or Torah. David spared no imagery to describe Torah as the life, light, wisdom, joy, and true riches of the person who obeys and delights in it. The Law of God is far more valuable than gold, the most precious commodity in David’s time. But the psalmist was not content to speak of the Law’s perfections. He also realized such a glorious revelation requires the proper response on his part—a cleansed heart that issues words and thoughts that are pleasing to the Lord.
Lesson 3: Trust in the Lord
Scripture to Read: Psalm 37:140
Psalm 37 is a wonderful example of why we are using the word “instruction” to describe this month’s study. If there is any place in life where we need divine help to understand the nature of our world, and having help to maintain the right perspective, it is in the matter of good versus evil. There are powerful and even exhilarating verses here that call us to remain faithful to God no matter what evil people may do. But we must admit that we are often puzzled by the seeming triumph of evil people—and the writers of Scripture often asked God, “Why do the wicked seem to prosper in their plots?”
Although we may not find all of the answers we seek, the answer given in Psalm 37 is the one that ultimately must suffice for us. David described the blessing of the person who chooses to remain trustful and still before God, even when pursuing wrong seems to pay better dividends. But this is not so, because the triumph of evil is short-lived. Wicked people and their plans will quickly pass away, while those who trust God will stand. So the writer’s conclusion is a solid one. The wisest thing we can do is take refuge in God and wait for His deliverance.
Lesson 4: The God of Jacob Is Our Fortress
Scripture to Read: Psalm 46:111
This powerful psalm speaks of God as the mighty fortress of Israel and her people who is able to protect His holy city no matter how great the dangers are that might arise. The wording of verses 2–3 deliberately uses exaggerated language to illustrate and underscore the point being made. The worst thing that could happen from a natural standpoint would be for the earth to “give way” so the mountains crumbled.
This picture of natural catastrophe suggests that even if Jerusalem’s enemies came against her in full force, God would help her to stand. The psalmist can rejoice: Israel and Jerusalem are secure in the Lord.
There is also great personal comfort to be found in these verses. God-fearing people of every generation have held to the promise of His ever-present care and help. The setting for this psalm appears to be a time of war and chaos, perhaps involving a historical event when Jerusalem was under siege or threat. But even in such times, God calls His people to “be still” and wait for His protection and deliverance.
Lesson 5: The Blessing of Being in God's House
Scripture to Read: Psalm 73:128
The issues dealt with in Psalm 73 should strike a resonant chord in our hearts and minds. At one time or another, all of us have looked at ourselves in relation to others who seem to be better off than we, and cried out something to the effect of, “Life isn’t fair!” Even if we do not express that sentiment out loud, it is a universal part of human existence. Sometimes things appear to be upside-down, especially for people of faith who are doing their best to live right and follow God.
We have to admire the honesty of Asaph, the writer. He was so distressed by what seemed to be the prosperous and carefree life of evil people that he almost gave up on his faith. Even when Asaph tried to understand the ways of God in light of what he observed around him, God’s ways appeared confusing and unfair to him. But the key to the psalm is in verse 17, where the mood shifts completely. Nothing changed outwardly; rather, Asaph was changed on the inside when he went to the Temple to worship God and saw life from God’s perspective. His conclusion, therefore, is sound: “I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge” (v. 28).
Lesson 6: The Frailty of Life and Our Need for God
Scripture to Read: Psalm 90:117
Psalm 90 carries a superscription that attributes it to Moses, making this psalm centuries older than the others. These words speak to people in every generation because they contrast so powerfully the brevity and frailty of human life with the eternal existence of God. The Bible is unfailingly honest in portraying life as a brief period during which each of us make our appearance on the stage of history and then are gone.
Moses understood this fact, and he expanded on this thought by saying that as weak and imperfect beings, we spend our days under the shadow of God’s wrath. This certainly does not mean faith has no value, or there is no benefit to us in placing our faith and hope in God. Exactly the contrary, in fact! Because our God is forgiving and filled with compassion toward His creatures, we can enjoy His unfailing love and spend our days singing for joy in His favor. Moses was not a pessimist, but a realist.Life is short, so embrace the wisdom of God and live life to the fullest as God provides and blesses.
Lesson 7: The Lord Alone Is God of Heaven and Earth
Scripture to Read: Psalm 115:118
The exact situation behind the writing of this psalm is not known with certainty. The author’s strong statements about the total futility of idols and those who worship them may suggest a time when Israel was being confronted with idol worship, a problem the nation struggled with until the Babylonian exile. The psalmist knows that the Lord alone is the Sovereign of heaven and earth, and he longs for God’s great name to be vindicated. God deserves all of the honor and glory because there is no comparison between Him and the gods made by human hands.
Because of this, the psalmist made an impassioned plea for the people of God to hold to their trust in Him (vv. 9–11). There is no hope to be found in putting our trust in idols that cannot see, hear, or speak. But those who trust in the Lord God of Israel have the promise of His blessing—because as the true God He alone has the power to carry out His will! The psalm ends with a call for us to praise God now, while we have the opportunity.
LifeScripture to Read: Psalm 1:16
The first psalm is a fitting introduction to the entire Psalter. It can truly be called a wisdom psalm because it presents two distinct paths we may choose in life—the wise or godly path, and the path of the wicked or ungodly. But clearly, only one of these paths leads us into the delight of learning and obeying God’s Law and enjoying His blessing on our lives. That person is “blessed” who avoids the kind of casual (suggested by “walk”) or intimate (suggested by “sit”) association with mockers that may lead one astray.
The “delight” we find in God’s Word is a strong theme in Jewish teaching. While to others the commands of the Torah may seem like a burden, they are the delight of the pious Jew. In Psalm 1––and indeed, in all of the psalms—God offers mankind the choice between a fruitful, prosperous life or one that leaves nothing behind but chaff. There is an interesting parallel between verse 3 and Jeremiah 17:7–8. Both passages speak of a tree that draws its life from the water by which it is planted. This is the picture of the person who rests upon God and His provision.
Lesson 2: The Law of the Lord
Scripture to Read: Psalm 19:114
Psalm 19 is another passage of Scripture that is filled with wisdom. These verses also instruct the reader how to respond properly to God as both the Creator and the Lawgiver. Verses 1–6 extol the grandeur of God for the way He stretched out the heavens as the Creator of all that is seen. The universe is majestic, but it reveals an even more majestic God. The dominant feature in the visible universe is the sun, which was worshiped by many nations around ancient Israel. But here we learn the true God has set the sun in its place and is its Master.
Contemplating the revelation of God in nature led David to meditate on God’s revelation in the Law, or Torah. David spared no imagery to describe Torah as the life, light, wisdom, joy, and true riches of the person who obeys and delights in it. The Law of God is far more valuable than gold, the most precious commodity in David’s time. But the psalmist was not content to speak of the Law’s perfections. He also realized such a glorious revelation requires the proper response on his part—a cleansed heart that issues words and thoughts that are pleasing to the Lord.
Lesson 3: Trust in the Lord
Scripture to Read: Psalm 37:140
Psalm 37 is a wonderful example of why we are using the word “instruction” to describe this month’s study. If there is any place in life where we need divine help to understand the nature of our world, and having help to maintain the right perspective, it is in the matter of good versus evil. There are powerful and even exhilarating verses here that call us to remain faithful to God no matter what evil people may do. But we must admit that we are often puzzled by the seeming triumph of evil people—and the writers of Scripture often asked God, “Why do the wicked seem to prosper in their plots?”
Although we may not find all of the answers we seek, the answer given in Psalm 37 is the one that ultimately must suffice for us. David described the blessing of the person who chooses to remain trustful and still before God, even when pursuing wrong seems to pay better dividends. But this is not so, because the triumph of evil is short-lived. Wicked people and their plans will quickly pass away, while those who trust God will stand. So the writer’s conclusion is a solid one. The wisest thing we can do is take refuge in God and wait for His deliverance.
Lesson 4: The God of Jacob Is Our Fortress
Scripture to Read: Psalm 46:111
This powerful psalm speaks of God as the mighty fortress of Israel and her people who is able to protect His holy city no matter how great the dangers are that might arise. The wording of verses 2–3 deliberately uses exaggerated language to illustrate and underscore the point being made. The worst thing that could happen from a natural standpoint would be for the earth to “give way” so the mountains crumbled.
This picture of natural catastrophe suggests that even if Jerusalem’s enemies came against her in full force, God would help her to stand. The psalmist can rejoice: Israel and Jerusalem are secure in the Lord.
There is also great personal comfort to be found in these verses. God-fearing people of every generation have held to the promise of His ever-present care and help. The setting for this psalm appears to be a time of war and chaos, perhaps involving a historical event when Jerusalem was under siege or threat. But even in such times, God calls His people to “be still” and wait for His protection and deliverance.
Lesson 5: The Blessing of Being in God's House
Scripture to Read: Psalm 73:128
The issues dealt with in Psalm 73 should strike a resonant chord in our hearts and minds. At one time or another, all of us have looked at ourselves in relation to others who seem to be better off than we, and cried out something to the effect of, “Life isn’t fair!” Even if we do not express that sentiment out loud, it is a universal part of human existence. Sometimes things appear to be upside-down, especially for people of faith who are doing their best to live right and follow God.
We have to admire the honesty of Asaph, the writer. He was so distressed by what seemed to be the prosperous and carefree life of evil people that he almost gave up on his faith. Even when Asaph tried to understand the ways of God in light of what he observed around him, God’s ways appeared confusing and unfair to him. But the key to the psalm is in verse 17, where the mood shifts completely. Nothing changed outwardly; rather, Asaph was changed on the inside when he went to the Temple to worship God and saw life from God’s perspective. His conclusion, therefore, is sound: “I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge” (v. 28).
Lesson 6: The Frailty of Life and Our Need for God
Scripture to Read: Psalm 90:117
Psalm 90 carries a superscription that attributes it to Moses, making this psalm centuries older than the others. These words speak to people in every generation because they contrast so powerfully the brevity and frailty of human life with the eternal existence of God. The Bible is unfailingly honest in portraying life as a brief period during which each of us make our appearance on the stage of history and then are gone.
Moses understood this fact, and he expanded on this thought by saying that as weak and imperfect beings, we spend our days under the shadow of God’s wrath. This certainly does not mean faith has no value, or there is no benefit to us in placing our faith and hope in God. Exactly the contrary, in fact! Because our God is forgiving and filled with compassion toward His creatures, we can enjoy His unfailing love and spend our days singing for joy in His favor. Moses was not a pessimist, but a realist.Life is short, so embrace the wisdom of God and live life to the fullest as God provides and blesses.
Lesson 7: The Lord Alone Is God of Heaven and Earth
Scripture to Read: Psalm 115:118
The exact situation behind the writing of this psalm is not known with certainty. The author’s strong statements about the total futility of idols and those who worship them may suggest a time when Israel was being confronted with idol worship, a problem the nation struggled with until the Babylonian exile. The psalmist knows that the Lord alone is the Sovereign of heaven and earth, and he longs for God’s great name to be vindicated. God deserves all of the honor and glory because there is no comparison between Him and the gods made by human hands.
Because of this, the psalmist made an impassioned plea for the people of God to hold to their trust in Him (vv. 9–11). There is no hope to be found in putting our trust in idols that cannot see, hear, or speak. But those who trust in the Lord God of Israel have the promise of His blessing—because as the true God He alone has the power to carry out His will! The psalm ends with a call for us to praise God now, while we have the opportunity.
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