Blog Posts on Biblical Topics

The Narrow Gate: Exegetical Insights into Matthew 7:13–14

The “narrow gate” suggests restriction or limitation—not in a legalistic sense, but in terms of exclusivity and difficulty. It is not narrow because God delights in making things difficult, but because truth and righteousness are not subject to popular opinion or personal convenience.

Discerning the Voices: God’s Whisper vs. the Devil’s Lies

Jesus taught that we can discern the source of spiritual influence by its fruit: “Every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.” God’s whisper produces love, joy, and growth in Christlikeness. The enemy’s lies bear fruit in fear, division, sin, and spiritual stagnation.

Plenitude in Scripture: Bible Examples of God’s Abundant Provision

One of the most striking examples of God’s provision occurs during Israel’s exodus from Egypt. As the Israelites wander in the wilderness, far from fertile fields or reliable food sources, God provides manna—bread from heaven—every morning (Exodus 16).

Chronology of Major Empires in the Book of Daniel

The Book of Daniel's chronology of empires—Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome—serves not only as a record of past events but also as a framework for understanding the transient nature of human achievement and the enduring promise of God’s kingdom.

Understanding the Works of the Flesh in Galatians

Paul lists behaviors and attitudes such as sexual immorality, impurity, idolatry, hatred, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, drunkenness, and the like (Galatians 5:19-21). These are outward signs of a life not guided by the Spirit.

Codex Vaticanus: The Crown Jewel of Biblical Manuscripts

Codex Vaticanus is considered one of the most accurate and complete witnesses to the original Greek text of the Old and New Testaments. As one of the three great uncial codices—alongside Codex Sinaiticus and Codex Alexandrinus—it forms the backbone of modern biblical textual criticism.

7 Deadly Sins Quotes: Timeless Wisdom and Warnings

Mahatma Gandhi’s words are a powerful indictment of greed, the insatiable desire for more—more wealth, more possessions, more power—regardless of the consequences. Greed lies at the heart of many societal ills, from environmental destruction to economic inequality.

20 Bible Truths To Tell Kids

These twenty truths are not just lessons to memorize—they are principles to live by. Teaching them consistently helps children grow in faith, character, and confidence. Parents and teachers can reinforce these truths through stories, songs, prayers, and daily conversations.

10 Bible verses for fighting off Satan

These ten verses form a powerful arsenal for believers. They remind us that the battle is real, but so is the victory. Fighting off Satan requires vigilance, submission to God, and reliance on His Word.

The Meaning of Hesed: Analyzing God’s Unfailing Love

Psalm 136, for example, repeats the refrain, “His hesed endures forever,” underscoring the idea that God’s love is unwavering and eternal. Psalm 23:6 famously concludes, “Surely goodness and hesed shall follow me all the days of my life.”

Sabbath Rest: The Theology of Digital Detoxing

Just as the Sabbath involves abstaining from labor, digital Sabbath calls for a cessation from digital activity. This could mean turning off all devices for a 24-hour period each week, or setting aside regular intervals for screen-free time.

5 Bible Verses for Mental Clarity

Philippians reminds us to surrender anxiety, Romans calls us to renew our minds, Isaiah promises perfect peace through trust, James assures us of God’s generous wisdom, and Corinthians teaches us to discipline our thoughts.

Biblical Strategies for Overcoming Burnout in 2026

Proverbs 3:5-6 exhorts, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Letting go of control requires faith that God is at work, even when we cannot see the full picture.

Codex Esoterica: Unlocking the Hidden Knowledge

In literature and popular culture, Codex Esoterica represents the ultimate prize for the seeker—a source of power, enlightenment, or forbidden insight. It is a metaphor for the sum total of human curiosity about the unknown, as well as a warning about the dangers of knowledge untempered by wisdom.

Omnism Explained: What It Means to Be an Omniest

Omnists often cultivate a deep appreciation for religious texts, rituals, and philosophies from around the world. They may meditate with Buddhists, attend Mass with Catholics, celebrate Diwali with Hindus, and reflect on the teachings of the Quran—all as part of their spiritual journey.

In God We Trust: The Story Behind America’s Motto

The specific phrase “In God We Trust” first gained national prominence during one of the darkest chapters in American history: the Civil War. Amid the bloodshed and uncertainty, many Americans turned to faith for comfort and meaning.

God and My Right: Decoding Deus Meumque Jus

The phrase is Latin, composed of three simple words: “Deus” (God), “Meum” (my), and “Jus” (right/law). Together, they form a declaration: “God and my right,” or more precisely, “God and my right shall me defend.”

Ego vs Soul: The Battle Between Flesh and Spirit

Ironically, it is often through suffering that we become aware of the soul’s presence. Life’s losses, failures, and disappointments can strip away the illusions maintained by the ego, forcing us to confront deeper questions about meaning and purpose.

Guardians of Creation: The Four Archangels of the Elements

Michael is shown with flames or a sword, Gabriel with a chalice or flowing water, Raphael with a staff or wings in motion, and Uriel with a sheaf of wheat or a stone tablet. These symbols serve as reminders of the archangels’ respective powers and the elements they command.

Holy Spirit vs Kundalini Spirit

Some Christians argue that practices aimed at awakening Kundalini can open individuals to spiritual deception or demonic influences. They point out that the Holy Spirit is received by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone, not through self-effort or esoteric practices.

8 Pagan Holidays and Their Ancient Origins

In Norse and Germanic traditions, Yule was marked by feasting, burning the Yule log, and decorating with evergreens—symbols of life enduring through winter. The twelve days of Yule, gifts, and merry gatherings inspired many Christmas customs.

As Above, So Below: The Meaning Behind the Ancient Maxim

Hermeticists believe that the spiritual, mental, and physical planes are interconnected. By understanding the patterns on one plane, we can gain insight into the others.

10 Satanic Symbols and Their Hidden Meanings

In Satanic and left-hand path traditions, the Ouroboros can symbolize self-sufficiency, the eternal cycle of destruction and creation, and the embrace of both light and dark.

7 Profound Truths About the Seal of God in the Bible

Ephesians 4:30 urges believers, “Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.” The seal is a guarantee that God will complete the work He has begun in us. It points to the resurrection, the restoration of all things, and eternal life in God’s presence.

7 Powerful Weapons Satan Uses to Attack Believers

By recognizing the enemy’s schemes—deception, temptation, accusation, division, fear and discouragement, pride, and distraction—we can stand firm and resist his attacks.

The Evil Heart: Biblical Insights on Human Corruption

In Mark 7:21-23, Jesus says, “For it is from within, out of a person’s heart, that evil thoughts come—sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. All these evils come from inside and defile a person.”

Unholy Trinity in the Bible: A Deeper Look at Spiritual Opposition

The Book of Revelation provides the most vivid portrayal of the Unholy Trinity. In chapters 12 and 13, the dragon, the beast from the sea, and the beast from the earth work together to wage war against God’s people. Their alliance is a grotesque parody of the Holy Trinity’s unity and purpose.

The Amplified Bible: Unlocking Layers of Meaning in Scripture

The Amplified Bible’s distinctive feature is its use of amplifications—words and phrases inserted into the text to illuminate the meaning of the original language.

In the Beginning: Exploring the First Verse of the Bible

The phrase “In the beginning” implies a moment before which there was nothing—no time, no space, no material reality. This has led many theologians and philosophers to ask: What does it mean for God to exist “before” time? How can something arise from nothing?

From YHWH to Yahweh: Decoding the Tetragrammaton

In Exodus 3:14, Moses asks God for His name, and God replies, “Ehyeh Asher Ehyeh” (“I Am That I Am”), linking the divine name to the Hebrew verb “to be.” This connection suggests that YHWH may imply “He Who Is” or “He Who Causes To Be,” underscoring God’s eternal and self-sufficient nature.

Sermons on Gideon in the Bible

God calls Gideon to begin his mission not on the battlefield, but at home, by confronting the idolatry within his own family and community. Sermons based on this episode often address the need for personal and communal repentance.

Jesus and the Jewish roots of the Eucharist

The Bread of Presence symbolized God’s continual presence with his people and the covenant relationship between God and Israel. Several scholars see a connection between this ancient rite and Jesus’ actions at the Last Supper.

From Eternity to Eternity: John 17:5

This verse is one of the clearest affirmations in the New Testament of the preexistence of Christ. Unlike ordinary human beings, Jesus did not come into existence at the moment of His conception or birth. Rather, He existed eternally with God the Father.

A Cup of Suffering: Understanding John 19:28

The “cup” Jesus drinks is the culmination of his obedience to the Father’s will. In declaring his thirst, he signals that he is drinking deeply of the suffering appointed to him, fulfilling his mission as the Lamb of God.

The Power of Forgiveness: Unlocking John 20:23

John 20:23 underscores that forgiveness is not a transaction controlled by human intermediaries, but a gift received by faith in Christ. The church’s role is to bear witness to this reality, proclaiming that all who turn to Jesus in repentance and faith are forgiven.

The New Commandment Unpacked: Analyzing John 13:34

Jesus’s love for His disciples is sacrificial, unconditional, and relentless. He loves them to the end—literally to the point of death on a cross (John 13:1). The newness of the commandment is found in this radical, self-giving love that redefines relationships among believers.

When Death Meets Resurrection: John 11:25–26

Resurrection is not just an event at the end of time; it is a present reality for those united with Christ. The believer, though subject to physical death, is made alive in a new and indestructible way. Eternal life begins now, woven into the fabric of daily existence through faith in Jesus.

Perfect Love Revealed: God’s Heart in 1 John 4:1–12

God does not merely possess love or express love—He is love. All true love originates from Him. To be born of God is to receive His nature, and to know God is to experience and express His love. The inverse is equally true: a loveless life is evidence of a heart untouched by God’s grace.

No Teacher but the Spirit: The Power of 1 John 2:27

John does not reject all forms of instruction or the value of learning from others. Rather, he challenges the absolute authority of human teachers, especially those who contradict the gospel. The ultimate teacher is the Holy Spirit—God’s own presence, guiding believers into truth.

Heaven Opens: An Analytical Look at Matthew 3:13–17

As heaven opens, the Spirit of God descends upon Jesus “like a dove.” The dove is a potent symbol. In the story of Noah, the dove brings back an olive branch, signaling the end of judgment and the beginning of new life. In Jewish symbolism, the dove is also associated with the Spirit and with peace.

Benefits of Contentment in the Bible

Perhaps one of the most profound benefits of contentment is the sense of inner peace it brings. This peace is not the absence of problems but the presence of God in the midst of them. Isaiah 26:3 promises, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.”

The Burden Made Light: An Analysis of Matthew 11:28–30

Unlike the religious authorities who imposed burdens on others, Jesus offers a leadership marked by compassion and meekness. To learn from Him is to adopt these traits—trading harshness for gentleness and pride for humility.

10 Bible verses about Discipleship

These ten Bible verses offer a window into the heart of discipleship—its invitation, its cost, its mission, and its rewards. As we reflect on these passages, we are challenged to follow Jesus more closely, to love others more deeply, to invest in disciple-making, and to persevere on the journey.

Summary of Genesis chapter 10

Genesis 10 sets the stage for the events that follow, particularly the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11. The Table of Nations shows how humanity was divided by family lines and regions before their division by language.

7 Lessons from Delilah in the Bible

Delilah’s manipulation underscores the necessity of discernment—choosing carefully whom we confide in and ensuring that our vulnerabilities are protected from those who may exploit them.

2 Kings 1 Commentary

The chapter underscores the biblical teaching that Yahweh alone is God and worthy of worship. Consulting other deities or sources of spiritual power is not only futile but invites divine judgment. The narrative makes clear that God demands exclusive loyalty from His people.

3 reasons why Baptism is important

While the physical water does not have mystical powers to remove sin, it points to the inner reality of God’s forgiveness granted through faith in Jesus. The washing with water is a visible sign of the invisible grace that cleanses the heart.

11 lessons learned from Zacchaeus

Jesus declared that salvation had come to Zacchaeus’ house, not because of Zacchaeus’ deeds, but because of his faith and repentance. This reveals that salvation is not earned by good works; it is a gift received by faith.

7 lessons we can learn from Deborah in the Bible

Deborah’s actions remind us that faith-fueled courage can overcome even the most overwhelming challenges. Her example encourages us to trust in God’s power rather than our own strength, knowing that He is able to bring victory in situations that seem impossible.

Bible verses about love in hard times with explanation

Known as the “love chapter,” 1 Corinthians 13 describes the qualities of true love. In the midst of hardship, love stands firm—it perseveres, hopes, and endures. This verse encourages us not only to receive love in hard times but to extend it, trusting that love’s resilience will carry us through.

Verses against predestination in the Bible

In Ezekiel 33:11, God says, “As surely as I live… I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live.”

7 powerful lessons to learn from the life of Jacob

Jacob teaches us the value of perseverance. Dreams and blessings often require hard work, patience, and the willingness to endure setbacks. His story encourages us to remain steadfast in the face of adversity and not to give up when our path becomes challenging.

Ophanim vs Seraphim: Exploring the Differences and Similarities of Celestial Beings

In Christian thought, the Seraphim are at the top of the angelic hierarchy, representing the highest order of love and closeness to God. The Ophanim, sometimes equated with Thrones, are seen as bearers of God’s justice and guardianship.

Examples of Missionary Work

A prime example is the work of Dr. Paul Brand, a British orthopedic surgeon and missionary in India and later in the United States. He dedicated his career to treating patients with leprosy, developing innovative surgical procedures that improved the quality of life for countless individuals.

Difference Between Eve and Lilith

While Eve embodies the dualities of obedience and curiosity, sin and redemption, Lilith represents the radical possibilities of independence and defiance.

7 Blessings Of Tithing

Those who embrace tithing often find that their lives become richer—not just in resources, but in trust, freedom, connection, and joy. By giving faithfully, we open ourselves to receive the abundant and surprising blessings that only generosity can unlock.

5 Omni Qualities Of God

The five omni qualities—Omnipotence, Omniscience, Omnipresence, Omnibenevolence, and Omnificence—together form a portrait of God as the ultimate and perfect being.

Inspiring Biblical Quotes on Hospitality

Romans 12:13 (NIV) urges believers to “Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” The word “practice” suggests that hospitality is not a one-time event but a consistent way of life. It may require effort, intention, and sometimes even sacrifice.

Five Barriers Keeping People Away From Jesus

Life’s hardships often raise painful questions about God’s love and goodness. For many, personal suffering—whether from loss, illness, broken relationships, or injustice—becomes a barrier to faith. They may wonder why a loving God allows pain, or feel abandoned in their darkest moments.

Twenty Bible quotes that made it into movies

Biblical quotes can provide comfort in moments of loss, courage in times of fear, and clarity amid confusion. They also signal to audiences the universal search for meaning and the enduring relevance of ancient wisdom.

The biblical command that we break most often

Of all the biblical commands, “Do not fear” may be the one we break most often, precisely because it touches every aspect of our lives. Yet, it is also a command that comes with a promise: God’s presence, His peace, and His power to sustain us.

10 Things Even Non-Believers Can Learn From Jesus

The values he espoused—compassion, forgiveness, humility, courage, self-reflection, generosity, integrity, service, hope, and love—are not exclusive to any faith. They are human values, accessible to all.

Understanding 1 Timothy 4: Faithfulness and Godly Living

As a young leader entrusted with the oversight of the church in Ephesus, Timothy faces the dual challenges of false teachings and the need to foster spiritual maturity among believers. 1 Timothy 4 is a pivotal chapter that addresses these concerns head-on.

Jonadab in the Bible: A Character Study

He not only conceives the plan that leads to Tamar’s violation but also appears to show little remorse or concern for the consequences of his advice. When the murder of Amnon occurs, Jonadab is quick to distance himself, offering information to King David and attempting to calm the king’s fears.

The Concept of Peace Treaties in the Bible

Paul, in his letters, urges believers to “live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18) and describes Christ as breaking down the “dividing wall of hostility” between Jews and Gentiles. The message is clear: the ultimate peace treaty is found in Christ, who reconciles people to God and to each other.

Unlocking the Wisdom of Proverbs 3:15

Rubies, in biblical times, were among the most sought-after and expensive gemstones. They symbolized wealth, power, and beauty. By stating that wisdom surpasses even rubies, the author conveys that no material possession or earthly desire can match the worth of wisdom.

Discovering the Heart of Jeremiah 29:13: Seeking God with All Your Heart

To seek God with all your heart means to pursue Him with undivided devotion, sincerity, and passion. It’s not a half-hearted or casual search, but a deliberate, all-encompassing quest.

Psalm 23:4 – Finding Strength and Comfort in the Valley

In moments of crisis—whether personal loss, illness, financial struggle, or global uncertainty—Psalm 23:4 offers a framework for hope. It reminds us that fear does not have the last word. Even when answers seem elusive and the journey is rough, God’s presence is our constant companion.

Mark 9:23: Unlocking the Power of Faith

Jesus does not place limits on what God can do; instead, He places the emphasis on the importance of human trust and belief. Faith, in this context, is not merely intellectual assent or wishful thinking. It is a deep-rooted trust in God’s character, promises, and power.

John 12:23: The Hour Has Come for the Son of Man to Be Glorified

Jesus’s “hour” refers to the time of His suffering, death, and resurrection—the means by which He will fulfill His mission and reveal God’s glory.

Romans 13:1: Submission to Governing Authorities

Romans 13:1 instructs believers to submit to governing authorities because these authorities have been instituted by God. Paul’s teaching does not exist in a vacuum; rather, it reflects a broader biblical theme of God’s sovereignty over all human institutions.

King Josiah: The Young Reformer of Judah

Josiah ordered the removal and destruction of all pagan altars, idols, and shrines throughout Judah and even into parts of the former northern kingdom of Israel. He dismissed idolatrous priests, destroyed instruments of idol worship, and desecrated sites dedicated to foreign gods.

Vexation Meaning in the Bible: Exploring Suffering, Frustration, and Spiritual Growth

Jesus encounters individuals who are “vexed with unclean spirits” (Luke 6:18, KJV), referring to those tormented by spiritual forces. Here, vexation takes on a supernatural dimension, reflecting the reality of spiritual warfare and the struggles that accompany it.

Brethren Meaning in the Bible: Understanding Spiritual Brotherhood

The Hebrew word "ach" and the Greek word "adelphoi" are most often translated as "brethren" or "brothers." While these terms can refer to actual siblings, the Bible frequently uses them in a broader sense to describe members of the same community, tribe, or faith.

Understanding the Concept of “Preeminent” in the Bible

Understanding the preeminence of Christ is crucial for Christian doctrine. It affirms the deity of Christ, His role in creation, and His authority over the church. This doctrine counters any teaching that would reduce Jesus to a mere prophet, teacher, or spiritual leader.

Contrived in the Bible: Exploring the Authenticity and Intentionality of Biblical Narratives

Several biblical passages have drawn accusations of contrivance. For instance, the miraculous events in the Exodus account—the parting of the Red Sea, the ten plagues—are sometimes viewed as legendary embellishments rather than literal history.

Daniel in the Bible: Faith and Courage in a Foreign Land

When King Nebuchadnezzar is troubled by a mysterious dream, none of his wise men can explain it. Daniel prays for God’s wisdom and is granted both the dream and its interpretation.

Calvary Meaning: Understanding the Profound Significance of Calvary in Christian Faith

Theologians emphasize that at Calvary, Jesus bore the weight of the world’s sins, offering Himself as a substitute for all people. His suffering and death are seen as the means by which humanity is reconciled with God.

To Whom Much Is Given, Much Is Required: A Call to Responsibility

It is easy to fall into the trap of believing that we are solely responsible for our own success. But humility reminds us that luck, timing, and the support of others often play significant roles.

Penance in the Bible

The Bible presents penance not as a legalistic requirement but as a dynamic relationship with God. The process involves recognition of sin, remorse, confession, and a commitment to live differently.

Understanding ‘Mere Christianity’: A Timeless Exploration of Christian Belief

One of Lewis’s most enduring contributions is his articulation of the moral argument for God’s existence. He argues that the very fact that we experience moral obligations points to a source beyond ourselves.

Church of the Broken God: An Exploration of a Modern Mythos

By worshipping machines and seeking to become more mechanical, its followers blur the lines between human and machine, faith and function. This tension mirrors real-world debates about artificial intelligence, cybernetics, and the possibility of a post-human future.

The Easter Bunny: Symbolism, Origins, and Modern Traditions

The rabbit’s association with fertility, growth, and renewal echoes the themes of hope and resurrection central to Easter. For Christians, the holiday celebrates Jesus Christ’s victory over death, and the arrival of spring underscores the message of new life and fresh beginnings.

Pastor Appreciation Month: Honoring Spiritual Leaders

Pastor Appreciation Month traces its roots to Clergy Appreciation Day, also known as Pastor Appreciation Day, which is celebrated on the second Sunday of October.

Archangel Uriel: The Angel of Wisdom and Illumination

Uriel is believed to offer insight during moments of moral or intellectual crisis, helping individuals find the wisdom to choose the right path. He is often invoked by students, teachers, writers, and anyone engaged in intellectual or creative endeavors.

The Seven Heavenly Virtues: Guiding Lights of Moral Excellence

These virtues are not abstract ideals but practical guides for everyday living. By cultivating chastity, temperance, charity, diligence, patience, kindness, and humility, individuals can overcome the temptations of vice and build a life marked by integrity, joy, and peace.

All Souls Day: Remembering and Praying for the Faithful Departed

While All Saints Day celebrates the saints in heaven, All Souls Day is dedicated to those who have passed away but have not yet attained the fullness of heaven.

All Saints Day: Honoring the Communion of Saints

The day affirms the doctrine of the “communion of saints,” emphasizing the spiritual bond among Christians—both living and departed. It serves as a reminder that sainthood is not reserved solely for those canonized by the Church, but extends to all who have led holy lives.

Facts About Christianity: Exploring the World’s Largest Religion

Christians believe that Jesus is both fully divine and fully human, sent to reconcile humanity to God through his sacrificial death and resurrection. The core message is one of grace, forgiveness, and the promise of eternal life for those who trust in Christ.

He Is Risen: The Heart of Christian Hope

In rising from the dead, Jesus triumphed over the greatest enemy of humanity—death itself. This victory is not just for Himself but for all who believe in Him.

God's Plan of Salvation

The New Testament presents the cross as the climactic moment where sin’s power is broken, God’s justice is satisfied, and mercy is extended to all. Paul writes, “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Stoning in the Bible

Today, stoning is rightly condemned as a cruel and inhuman punishment. Most Christian traditions no longer support any form of capital punishment, let alone stoning.

Damnation Meaning in the Bible

Sin, in the biblical worldview, creates a chasm between humanity and its Creator. Damnation is the ultimate realization of that separation—an existence apart from the source of life, love, and goodness.

Theotokos: The Mother of God in Christian Tradition

The bishops affirmed that Jesus is one person, both God and man, and that Mary, by giving birth to Jesus, is rightly called the Mother of God—not as the mother of the divine nature itself, but as the one who bore the incarnate Word.

The Woman of the Apocalypse: Unveiling the Mystery in the Book of Revelation

Some theologians and biblical scholars argue that the woman is a composite symbol, embodying aspects of Israel, Mary, and the church. This view acknowledges the layered nature of biblical symbolism and the interconnectedness of God’s people throughout history.

Korah in the Bible: A Story of Rebellion and Its Lessons

Korah’s downfall began with pride and a desire for status beyond what God had assigned him. Instead of serving faithfully, he coveted roles not meant for him.

The Wave Offering in the Bible: Symbolism, Ritual, and Meaning

By waving the offering before the Lord, the worshipper acknowledged that all blessings—and all produce, animals, or positions—ultimately came from God. The act symbolized a transfer of ownership: what was offered was now regarded as belonging to God, set apart for His use.

Doorkeepers in the Bible: Guardians of God’s House

Spiritually, every believer is called to guard the “door” of their heart. Proverbs 4:23 advises, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” The vigilance, humility, and dedication of the doorkeepers offer a model for how Christians are to steward their spiritual lives.

The Star of Bethlehem: Unraveling the Mystery

The primary source for the story of the Star of Bethlehem comes from the second chapter of the Gospel of Matthew. According to the narrative, Magi from the east observed a new star rising and interpreted it as the sign of the birth of the “king of the Jews.”

Puritanism: Ideals, Influence, and Legacy

They emphasized predestination, the doctrine that God had already chosen who would be saved (the elect) and who would be damned. Another key belief was the necessity of a “conversion experience”—an intense, personal encounter with God leading to a transformed life.