May 2015: Digging Deeper

Was there just one cup at the Last Supper? Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness

Is Jesus condoning life-threatening activities? They will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well. Mark 16:18 The last part of the book

Understanding some currency of Jesus’ day “Truly I tell you,” he said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others.” Luke 21:3 The Bible talks a lot about money – hundreds and hundreds of verses in fact. One could easily conclude, then, that God

What Jewish men wore and why Everything they do is done for people to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long. Matthew 23:5 Let’s stay in this same passage as yesterday where Jesus was scolding the Pharisees and teachers of the

What was the purpose of the Seat of Moses? Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat.” Matthew 23:1-2 Jews gathered in the synagogue or house of assembly, where the people met for

Who were the Sadducees and Pharisees? “Be careful,” Jesus said to them (the disciples). “Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” Matthew 16:6 Jesus spoke against two groups of people primarily mentioned together in Matthew 16. They were two religious parties that

How further study deepens understanding If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you. Luke 17:6 Today’s topic may be somewhat familiar to you, but I want

A statement by Jesus that seems a bit strange Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces. Matthew 7:6 In the first part of

A closer look at the literal family of Christ Someone told him (Jesus), “Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you.” Matthew 12:47 Let’s begin with an obvious statement: Joseph was not Jesus’ father. Matthew Chapter 1 tells us the genealogy of Jesus

Why did the Magi bring their particular gifts? On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Matthew 2:11 The Magi