What God Says About Me

What Does the Bible Say About Mothers?

What Does the Bible Say About Mothers?The Bible holds mothers in high regard and offers many examples of their importance and influence in the lives of their children. From the very beginning, God’s plan for families includes the role of mothers in nurturing, teaching, and guiding their children. Proverbs 31:25-28 describes the ideal woman, saying, "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her." These verses emphasize the value of a mother who is wise, diligent, and caring for her family.Honoring MothersThe Bible also teaches children to honor their mothers. In Exodus 20:12, one of the Ten Commandments says, "Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee." This commandment underscores the importance of respecting and honoring mothers, as they play a key role in God’s plan for families. Jesus also demonstrated respect for His mother, Mary, even at the cross, when He entrusted her to the care of the apostle John (John 19:26-27).The Nurturing Role of MothersMothers are called to nurture their children both physically and spiritually. In 2 Timothy 1:5, Paul commends Timothy’s mother, Eunice, for her role in raising him in the faith: "When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also." This highlights the significant influence mothers have in passing down faith to the next generation.ConclusionThe Bible teaches that mothers are a vital part of God’s plan for families. They are to be honored for their nurturing roles and for their wisdom, care, and spiritual guidance. Whether through the example of the Proverbs 31 woman, the honoring of mothers in the Ten Commandments, or the nurturing example of Timothy’s mother, Scripture affirms the invaluable role that mothers play in the lives of their children.

Who Was Theophilus in the Bible?

Who Was Theophilus in the Bible?Theophilus is mentioned in the introductions to the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. His name means "lover of God" or "friend of God," and he is addressed by Luke, the author of both books, as the recipient of his writings.Theophilus in Scripture1. Luke’s Greeting: In Luke 1:3, Luke writes, "It seemed good to me also... to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus."2. Acts’ Introduction: In Acts 1:1, Luke continues, "The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach."Possible Identities1. A Real Person: Theophilus may have been a high-ranking Roman official or a benefactor of Luke’s work, as suggested by the title "most excellent."2. Symbolic Representation: Some scholars believe Theophilus represents all believers who are "lovers of God," emphasizing the universal audience for Luke’s writings.Why This MattersTheophilus’s mention highlights the personal nature of the Gospel and Acts, showing the care taken to provide a clear and orderly account of Jesus’ life and the early Church’s history.

Should Christians Keep the Sabbath?

Should Christians Keep the Sabbath?The question of whether Christians should keep the Sabbath depends on theological interpretation. While the Sabbath was commanded in the Old Testament, Christians often view its observance through the lens of Jesus’ fulfillment of the law and the New Testament teachings on rest and worship.1. The Sabbath CommandExodus 20:8-10 states, “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God.” This commandment was given to Israel as part of the Mosaic Covenant.2. Jesus’ Teachings on the SabbathJesus emphasized the purpose of the Sabbath rather than strict legalism. In Mark 2:27-28, He said, “The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath: Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.” His teaching shifts the focus to rest, worship, and the heart’s intent.3. Christian PracticeMany Christians honor a day of rest and worship on Sunday, the day of Jesus’ resurrection, viewing it as a celebration of the new covenant. Romans 14:5-6 encourages believers to respect differing convictions: “One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike.”ConclusionWhile Christians are not bound by Old Testament Sabbath laws, observing a day of rest and worship can enrich faith and honor God. The focus should remain on living in His grace and reflecting His priorities (Hebrews 4:9-10).

What Does the Bible Say About Wearing a Cross Necklace?

What Does the Bible Say About Wearing a Cross Necklace?The Bible does not specifically address the wearing of a cross necklace, but it does emphasize the importance of the heart’s intent and the avoidance of idolatry. A cross necklace can be a symbol of faith, but it is crucial that the wearer does not place their trust in the symbol itself rather than in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.The Cross as a SymbolIn 1 Corinthians 1:18, Paul writes, "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God." The cross is a powerful symbol of Jesus' sacrifice for humanity’s sins and a reminder of the gospel message.Warnings Against IdolatryIn Exodus 20:4-5, God commands, "Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in the heaven above, or on the earth beneath, or in the waters beneath the earth." While the cross itself is not inherently wrong, Christians should be cautious not to treat it as an object of worship or a good luck charm.Why This MattersThe Bible teaches that symbols such as the cross should point us to the deeper truths of the gospel. A cross necklace should serve as a reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and not be an idol or source of superstitious belief.