zac | September 27, 2007
The Bible is unique for most of us in that it is quite possibly the only book we read [or try to read] regularly. I am a big fan of bound, printed material — but I rarely have the time or energy to read a book repeatedly. Even my favorite books — that I may [...]
zac | September 20, 2007
Understanding the context and culture of the society in which Jesus lived greatly aids our ability to make sense of what He taught. Jesus taught often in parables; even those around Him could barely understand some of His teachings. How can we expect to understand them? We must be willing to invest some energy into [...]
zac | September 13, 2007
It is of great benefit to understand the culture in which Jesus lived here on earth. Some of the things Jesus said and did may shock us; they may not have shocked those around Him. More often, though, are the instances when Jesus said and did things that seem completely normal to us. When we [...]
zac | September 6, 2007
Antiochus IV was a Syrian ruler who took over control of Israel in 175 BCE. His antecedents had allowed for a somewhat cordial relationship with Israel. Israel was allowed to worship freely and they had a limited sort of self-government. Antiochus IV changed that relationship. First, he raised taxes. Second, he began to promote himself [...]
