How Do I Stop Doubting God?

How Long Was Jesus on the Cross?

How Long Was Jesus on the Cross?According to the Gospels, Jesus hung on the cross for approximately six hours, from about 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. His crucifixion is a pivotal event in Christian theology, representing His sacrifice for the sins of humanity. The timing of His crucifixion, His suffering, and His final words on the cross carry deep spiritual significance for believers.Timeline of the CrucifixionJesus was crucified after being condemned by Pilate. Mark 15:25 (KJV) states, "And it was the third hour, and they crucified him." The "third hour" refers to 9:00 AM in Jewish time, which begins at sunrise. Jesus was nailed to the cross and began His agonizing ordeal. The Gospel accounts describe how Jesus endured physical pain, public humiliation, and mocking by the crowd and religious leaders.The Crucifixion and Jesus' WordsDuring His six hours on the cross, Jesus spoke several significant words. These included words of forgiveness, fulfillment, and surrender:Father, forgive them... Jesus prayed for those who were crucifying Him, showing His mercy and love for sinners (Luke 23:34).It is finished. Before His death, Jesus declared "It is finished" (John 19:30), signifying that the work of atonement was complete, and that He had accomplished the mission for which He came.Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit. Jesus' final words before He died were words of surrender to God the Father, showing His obedience and trust (Luke 23:46).The Significance of the Six HoursThe six hours Jesus spent on the cross represent the intense suffering He endured for the redemption of humanity. His crucifixion fulfilled Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 53, which foretold the suffering of the Messiah. The duration of His time on the cross also underscores the magnitude of His sacrifice, highlighting His love for humanity and His willingness to bear the weight of sin (Romans 5:8).ConclusionJesus was on the cross for approximately six hours, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. This time was marked by His physical suffering, His powerful words, and His ultimate sacrifice for the salvation of the world (John 3:16).

Does the Bible Say Not to Eat Pork?

Does the Bible Say Not to Eat Pork?Yes, the Old Testament prohibits eating pork under the Mosaic Law, but the New Testament lifts these dietary restrictions for Christians. The prohibition in Leviticus reflects the purity laws for Israel, while the New Testament emphasizes spiritual purity over dietary rules.Biblical Teachings on Eating PorkOld Testament Prohibition: Leviticus 11:7-8 states, "And the swine... is unclean to you: of their flesh shall ye not eat," as part of the dietary laws given to ancient Israel.Jesus Declares Foods Clean: Mark 7:18-19 records Jesus teaching that "it is not what goes into the body that defiles a person," signaling the end of dietary restrictions.Peter’s Vision: In Acts 10:15, Peter has a vision where God says, "What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common," affirming the removal of food-related prohibitions.ConclusionWhile the Old Testament forbids eating pork, the New Testament lifts these restrictions, emphasizing spiritual purity and freedom in Christ.

When Was the Christian Bible Made?

When Was the Christian Bible Made?The formation of the Christian Bible was a gradual process that unfolded over centuries, as the inspired writings of Scripture were collected, recognized, and preserved by the early Church. The Bible consists of the Old Testament, which was inherited from Jewish tradition, and the New Testament, which emerged from the writings of Jesus’ apostles and their associates.Formation of the Old TestamentThe Old Testament was completed long before the birth of Jesus Christ. Its books were written between approximately 1500 BC and 400 BC, with the Hebrew Scriptures (the Torah, Prophets, and Writings) being recognized as sacred by Jewish communities.Formation of the New Testament1. Apostolic Writings: The New Testament books were written between AD 50 and AD 100. These include the Gospels, letters of Paul, and other epistles.2. Recognition by the Church: By the late 2nd century, many Christian communities recognized most of the New Testament books as authoritative. The canon was formalized by Church councils, such as the Synod of Hippo in AD 393 and the Council of Carthage in AD 397.Why This MattersThe process of forming the Christian Bible reflects the careful discernment of the early Church in preserving God’s Word. It underscores the importance of Scripture as the foundation of Christian faith and practice.

How Many Times Is Love Mentioned in the Bible?

How Many Times Is Love Mentioned in the Bible?Love is a central theme throughout the Bible, appearing over 500 times depending on the translation. It is described as one of the most important characteristics of God, humanity, and the Christian life. In the Old Testament, love is associated with God’s covenant with Israel and His commands to love others, while in the New Testament, Jesus and the apostles emphasize the importance of love in relationships with God and others.Types of Love in the BibleThe Bible describes several different types of love, each with its own unique meaning:Agape Love: This is the highest form of love, often used to describe God’s unconditional love for humanity. Agape love is selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional. For example, in John 3:16, it says, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."Phileo Love: This is the love between close friends or companions, such as the friendship between David and Jonathan in the Old Testament (1 Samuel 18:1). In the New Testament, Jesus expresses this type of love toward His disciples, particularly in John 15:13: "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."Eros Love: This refers to romantic love, which is exemplified in the Song of Solomon. Although the Bible does not explicitly focus on eros, this type of love is celebrated in the beauty of romantic relationships within the context of marriage (Song of Solomon 1:2).Storge Love: This type of love refers to familial love, such as the bond between parents and children. While the term storge is not explicitly used in the New Testament, it reflects the natural love and affection within families (Romans 12:10).Love as the Greatest CommandmentIn Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus emphasizes the importance of love as the greatest commandment: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." Love for God and for others is foundational to Christian faith and practice (1 Corinthians 13:13).ConclusionLove is mentioned over 500 times in the Bible and is a foundational principle that guides believers in their relationship with God and with others. The Bible teaches that love is not just an emotion but a command, demonstrated through sacrificial acts of kindness, forgiveness, and compassion (1 John 4:7-8).