Reflections on the interplay of the Bible and Culture
#7 in the Sermon on the Mount series. America will be holding a presidential election in 2012. As a result, political advertisements and discussions fill the airwaves and pixels of the news outlets. It is the way of politics to seek and to wield power and influence. It is not always the wisest voice that … Read more
This post is number 6 in the Sermon on the Mount Series and examines the familiar Beatitude, “Blessed are the meek.” which is found in Matthew 5:5. The benefit conferred upon the meek is that they will inherit the earth. The word translated meek (NIV, ESV, NKJV) can also be translated, mild, tame, gentle, kindly or … Read more
#5 in the Sermon on the Mount Series Jesus said this about mourning: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” Matthew 5:4 (NIV) In the introduction to his book The Problem of Pain, C. S. Lewis writes: “When Mr. Ashley Sampson suggested to me the writing of this book, I asked leave … Read more
Matthew 5:3 reads: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (NASB) One must assume that Jesus knew what he was doing when he put this Beatitude first in the list. Blessed are the poor in Spirit. Luke’s record shortens this saying to simply, “blessed are you who are poor” … Read more