Lest You Enter into Temptation

Painting by El Greco on Wikimedia Commons
And He was withdrawn from them about a stone’s throw, and He knelt down and prayed, saying, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him. (Luke 22:41–43; NKJV)

Jesus’ Passover observance with the Twelve was the last time He and the Twelve were altogether. Toward the end of the meal, Jesus released Judas to carry out the plans he had already committed his heart to do (John 13:18–30). A few hours later, in the Garden of Gethsemane on the Mount of Olives (Mark 14:32; Luke 22:39), Judas arrived with “a multitude” to arrest Jesus, betraying Him “with a kiss” (Luke 22:47–48).

Continue reading

Those Who Are Sick

And their scribes and the Pharisees complained against His disciples, saying, “Why do You eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” Jesus answered and said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.” (Luke 5:30–32; NKJV)

One of the curious topics in modern Christianity is the intersection of personal holiness and public witness. Christians are often criticized for being legalistic and prudish when we abstain from certain festivities and observances in Western culture. On the other hand, when Christians do participate in such activities, we are often criticized for adopting pagan culture.

Continue reading

What Is a Christian?

Then Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul. And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch. (Acts 11:25–26; NKJV)

Nowadays, the word ‘Christian’ receives mixed responses. Christianity has played a significant role in shaping the modern world. However, in recent decades, Christianity has come under attack for being antiquated, bigoted, and even racist. Are these accusations accurate? What are the historical roots of Christianity? What does it mean to be a Christian today? Let’s take a look.

Continue reading