Bible Study Blog
The Curse and Mark of Cain (Genesis 4:11–16)
God created Adam and Eve in Paradise, but they had to give birth to their children in a fragmented world. Adam and Eve began their family life after God sent them out of the Garden of Eden.
The birth of their two sons was recorded “Now Adam knew Eve his wife, and she conceived and bore Cain, saying, ‘I have gotten a man with the help of the Lord.’ And again, she bore his brother Abel. Now Abel was a keeper of sheep, and Cain a worker of the ground” (Genesis 4:1-2).
These two children which are Cain and Abel became the ultimate story of jealousy and filial competition. Cain killed Abel out of anger and God chased Cain out into the world. Out of fear, Cain cried out that he will be killed and punished for his wicked acts.
They were two different men. Abel was a caregiver, he took care of sheep, creatures who worked around without any direction that did nothing at all and he kept them safe. Cain was a farmer who cultivated the soil daily.
He planted crops, harvested, and patiently waited to reap the fruit of his labor. They both sacrificed their harvest to God but the bible says,
“The Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering, he had no regard.
So Cain was very angry, and his face fell” (Genesis 4:5). God tried to encourage Cain to desist from his act, his character and let him become a better person so that God will accept his offering. Rather he murdered his brother because he was jealous.
To stop others from revenging Abel’s death the scripture told us that God gave Cain a mark which represented is a sign of protection. Alot of people wish to know what it is exactly, despite the fact that the bible was not explicit. A fake hypothesis has caused unbiblical theories that went viral.
The full story of Cain’s mark and the curse is written in the book of Genesis 4:11–16. This curse was as result of Cain killing his brother Abel, and he lied about it to God.
When he murdered his brother, the earth was cursed as the blood of Abel spilled on the ground. Meaning the earth drank Abel’s blood. Genesis 4:12 gives us a two-way opinion about Cain’s curse. First is the earth that was cursed by the blood of Abel. If Cain had tried to till the earth it wouldn’t have produced any fruit. This is a possible reason he established nations; which are the City of Enoch.
Secondly, the curse marked Cain as a fugitive and a wanderer. These two combined make up the Hebrew phrase “fugitive and wanderer”, which is special in the Hebrew Bible. Modern interpretations of the Hebrew verse 12 propose that Cain continued to live an itinerant way of life and because of this he was removed from his household.
Cain’s mark was assumed to be a physical mark placed on his forehead by God, telling the world that he was being protected by God. Basically, the scripture doesn’t need to go deep about Cain’s mark because what the mark represents is not really necessary instead it shows us how God’s love, mercy, and forgiveness surpasses every other thing.
Cain’s mark and curse is a phrase. The story emphasizes God’s declaration stating that if Cain gets hurt by someone, they will be rewarded sevenfold.
Some view this interpretation as a physical mark while others see it as a symbol and not just any physical mark. The KJV of the Bible reads “set a mark upon Cain.”
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The emphasis on Cain’s curse In the Septuagint is practically raised by combining the Greek participles στένων καὶ τρέμων (“groaning and shaking upon the earth”).
Syriac Christianity explains the Greek version translation that Cain went through serious distress that will make it easier for people to recognize him once they see him. Philo interprets the Greek verse 12 as a representation of Cain being scared of living without a soul.
The Samaritan Pentateuch and the Targums interpret this particular verse to mean that Cain was scared of being banished and an unstable man”
The Hebrew word for mark (‘Oth, אות) suggests a sign, a warning, a reminisce, or an omen. Cain’s mark was for the purpose of his protection which God promised him from untimely death which is to stop people from killing him. No one actually knows what the mark was or looks like but it’s believed to be clear.
Some deliberated that the mark was a Hebrew or Sumerian letter dropped on the face or on his arm. The Septuagint interprets the mark as a “sign”.So it is deliberated that the mark was acting as a sign to other people to prevent them from committing the same crime.
.The mark of Cain was a symbol of God’s protection; to save him from tormentors. He was punished by God and sent out from his family and every other thing around him and he was prevented from the fulfillment he derived from farming the way he did since he was born. His family formed other nations because they couldn’t harvest food from the land.
The scripture doesn’t state clearly what the mark looks like and where it’s found, it was just assumed the mark was on his forehead since most marks are placed on the forehead including that of the beast (Revelation 13) and also because Christians will be marked with the name of the lamb on their foreheads in heaven (Revelation 22).
It is most likely to be on the forehead to make it visible for others to see, which was not exaggerated. Some Hebrew scholars proposed it was a letter from God’s name on Cain’s arm. It wasn’t really necessary, because if it was that necessary the holy spirit would have motivated the writer, especially Moses to take a record of it.
Instead, the bonus was that God passed His mercy to a sinner. Cain took someone’s life when he wasn’t in the right position to do that, Killing someone made in God’s image, and disobeying God’s command, yet Cain was pardoned.
What Are Some False Myths about the Mark of Cain?
Since the scripture isn’t clear about the kind of the mark of Cain, alot of people came up with their own assumptions about what it might look like and if it has been passed to different generations in other shapes recently. These assumptions have led to fake beliefs and understanding of God’s word and will for us.
For instance, one proposed theory was that black skin was the mark on Cain’s forehead.
There’s no obvious scripture that approves this theory. In fact, it actually just lasted as the Atlantic slave trade became a superior economic force many millennia after Genesis was recorded first. Centuries of oral tradition and then records are written didn’t produce any backup for such a theory.
Contemporary religious scholars disapproved this theory completely. The bible never made mention of skin color, even if there was someone from Africa like the Ethiopian eunuch in the book of Acts of the Apostles their ethnic group was noted. The Hebrew word used for mark oath has never been used to refer to skin color.
Presently, there are also some approved theories that God’s mark was, in fact, baldness. The idea is that baldness is a malfunction, one that came into the world to mark Cain and his generation for eternity.
There are lots of issues pertaining to this theory too. Basically, God didn’t state that the mark will be for Cain’s whole generation. Like the more treacherous theory that skin color is associated with the mark, they both assumed that the curse and mark are synonymous.
We all desire to be with someone specially ordained by God for us. This is because we believe that with God’s chosen partner, we can experience a unique and harmonious relationship. As faithful servants of God, we anticipate divine connections to lead us to our life partners. However, during the search and waiting period, you might find yourself wondering how to recognize the right person when you meet them. This uncertainty can leave you feeling overwhelmed and confused. The question that arises is: are there signs or indications to identify the one God has destined for you?
Choosing the wrong partner can be a grave mistake with profound consequences. A failed relationship can leave you emotionally and mentally broken, potentially jeopardizing your destiny and impacting those around you. Some individuals carry the emotional trauma of past relationships into new ones.
Life’s journey comprises various phases, and relationships are one of these phases. They can be temporary or permanent. Love is a journey, and for any journey we embark on in life, we must choose the right path to achieve success and happiness. This not only benefits you but also your partner, and it can serve as a source of inspiration to others in existing relationships.
If you’re wondering how to identify the right partner for yourself, below are some biblical signs to help you recognize your divinely chosen partner.
Biblical signs and guidelines on how to identify the right partner
1. They speak God’s word
A person who speaks God’s word carries the spirit of Christ within them. Pay close attention to the words they speak. Do their words align with the teachings of Christ and the Word of God, or do they convey worldly wisdom? It’s essential to discern this but to do so effectively, you must have a good understanding of the Scriptures. If you’re not well-versed in the Scriptures, there’s no better time to start than now; it’s never too late to begin your journey of spiritual study.
2. They don’t lie
God’s chosen partner won’t be a liar. He won’t send someone to you who lies intentionally. When he gives you something, he makes it perfect and unique. God won’t bless you with a partner who lies, because lying is of the devil.
3. He doesn’t corrupt your good character.
The right person will be someone who will make you a better person, not someone who will influence your attitude and personality negatively. God gives his children someone who will compliment them and support them. They won’t corrupt your manners; rather, they will have a positive impact on you.
The question you should ask yourself and sincerely answer is: Does this person help me to grow in Christ or lead me on the wrong path?
4. You feel comfort and peace when that special someone is around
A very good sign that God wants you to be with someone is when you are comfortable and at peace with them. It shows that there is a great bond and that God has divinely connected you to your significant other. It is important to choose someone who makes you feel good about yourself, someone you are free with, and who will give you peace of mind.
5. The two of you had a strong friendship before the relationship
You’ve probably heard that marrying your friend is a good idea. Relationships that start with a foundation of friendship often lead to success. If you had a strong friendship with your partner before you began dating, consider it a significant advantage.
Being in a relationship with a friend makes it easier to connect because you both already know and understand each other before taking the step to love one another. If you happen to be in a relationship with a friend, consider yourself fortunate, as your union is likely to be truly unique.
6.You know there is true love between you
True love is divine and eternal. God loves us genuinely and expects us to love in the same way. If you notice that there is genuine love in your relationship with this person, you have found the right one. Don’t jeopardize this beautiful connection you share because it aligns with God’s will. When true love is present, your spirit will confirm it, and you’ll feel it deeply.
True love is healthy; it boosts your self-esteem, elevates your spirit, and doesn’t bring you down. It’s characterized by divinity, sincerity, faithfulness, honesty, kindness, patience, and the absence of criticism. If you both genuinely love each other, congratulations! you’ve made the right choice.
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7. Your relationship makes you a better individual
A good relationship makes you want to improve and work on your flaws. You become a better human. The two of you will become better because you complement each other; this is a sign that heaven has brought the right one. Do not take this for granted.
8. This individual played a pivotal role in nurturing your spiritual growth.
Our God wants the best for us, and he wants us to come closer to him. He will give you someone who will help you grow spiritually. If your partner urges you to seek God first and leads you to embrace Christ, then it’s God’s choice for you.
9. Your traits complement each other
Do your attributes or personality align? Do your positive and negative attributes complement each other? If yes, then you are in the right relationship. Don’t push that person away.
10. The two of you have the same goal: to put God at the center of your lives
Having the same goal as a couple is important, especially in the aspect of pleasing God. When you and your partner agree to place God at the center of your relationship and to honor him, it’s a sign you’re with the right person. This way, you are involving God in all that pertains to your relationship. You also inspire others to build a Goldly relationship.
11. You can see yourself growing old with this person
Another clear sign God wants you to be with someone is if you envision yourself being married with kids and getting old together. Sometimes our thoughts are God’s way of revealing things to us.
With this, you know your heart accepts this person, but if it’s not the will of God, he will definitely reveal it to you.
12. You share the same ministries
Belonging to the same ministry here means you both reason alike and you wish to settle down together as a couple. You both intend to build a godly home and live as Goldly couples.
13. Makes sacrifice
Any relationship that exists without sacrifices is unhealthy. A clear sign that this person is God’s divine arrangement is if your partner makes sacrifices for the growth of your relationship. You are not doing the work alone, but you two are involved.
14. Has a forgiving spirit
Forgiveness is a virtue to possess, and as Christians, we should learn to forgive. If your partner forgives you, that shows he or she has a Christ-like attitude, but if not, you have to give that relationship a second thought.
15. He practices what he speaks
A true Christian is one who practices what he says. If they are the type to say, “Do what I say, but don’t do what I do,” then the person is fake.
16. Goodness
Is this person good? Are they kind to you and others? If the answer is yes, don’t let go. It’s wonderful to find someone with a good heart; you can bring happiness to each other.
17. Faith
We all desire a lifelong, faithful partner, not one who flits around. If your partner is faithful and sincere, it’s a definite advantage.
18. Your Partner is Rich in Christ-like qualities
Does your partner exhibit Christ-like attributes? If your answer is yes, it’s a clear sign that God may be leading you to the right person. Before entering into any relationship or taking an existing one to the next level, ensure that your partner has a deep reverence for God. If you’re a true Christian and your partner is not, it’s advisable not to pursue that relationship, as it may lead to problems.
19. The Person is the Answer to Your Prayers
Does this person align with the qualities you’ve prayed for? Do you see this person as the answer to your prayers? If the answer is yes, then it’s likely God’s perfect choice.
20. The People Around You Support Your Union
One positive indicator of God’s choice is having the support of those around you regarding your relationship. If your family and friends are in favor of your union, that’s a good sign. As the saying goes, “The voice of the people is the voice of God.”
Conclusion
Having God’s chosen partner brings you peace. Knowing that the person you’re with was sent to you by God instills confidence and alleviates the fear of the unknown. With this person, you can be sure of a harmonious and blissful union.
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The question of “if dogs go to heaven” has been a matter of concern. The scripture doesn’t state that dogs go to heaven, but as we search through the Scriptures one can conclude this thought. Firstly, we would take a look at what heaven is like and how to relate it to this topic.
Heaven is better than we imagine
We all have an idea of what heaven looks like. Although we might have a different picture of what it looks like from our broad spectrum.
However, whatever our imaginary picture looks like, it can’t be compared to the real image of God. It’s far above our strength to get the exact picture of heaven. Even our idea about the joy and happiness that reigns in heaven is far below what it is. The beauty and comfort in heaven are beyond our human imagination.
1 Corinthians 13:12 gives us a clue “For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face.” Seeing the reflection of your children in the mirror is nothing in comparison to picking them up, swirling them around, and holding them close to your chest. The real picture of heaven will be far better than our imaginary picture.
Heaven Is for Those Who Are Saved
Heaven is for those it has been prepared for, it’s meant for the saved John 14:6 says Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by me. Anyone who believes in their heart and confesses with their mouth that Jesus is Lord will be saved (Romans 10:9 added That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
Then John 3:16 says “For God so loved the world, that he gave him only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
As regards these scriptures one can draw a Conclusion. Heaven is a place of joy and will always be. Even if we come across dogs or other animals in heaven, it shouldn’t be questioned because they’re also created by God.
The ability to make heaven depends on your salvation. Animals have restrictions. in Mark 5:11-13, he permitted a group of demons to possess some pigs, leading to the death of the pigs.
The creation of dogs and other animals is for a good purpose.
God created animals on the fifth and sixth days. Animals in the sea were created on the fifth day and God said it was good. And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so. (Genesis 1:24).
God created humans and animals on land on the same day. Perhaps God created both on the same day with similar features they possess.
God created these animals to be taken care of by man, which means man is superior to animals and has been placed to be in charge of them. These animals were created as a gift for a man to care for and value, they can’t be equal in the sight of God.
God Created Man in His Image
God created every firmament, animal, and human by declaring the words in his mouth. He said the word, and his word eventually brought them to reality. When it was time to create man the method was different, using words was not just what he needed. He said let us make man in our image and likeness The creation of man was unique. God took his time to create man because he wanted man to be his kind.
God took dust and made man and also created woman from man. Then he breathed life directly into both of them. God created them for his image to be reflected in them. They were formed with supernatural qualities that no other living creature has. We were all created in the image of the Father to reflect him.
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Only Humans Have a Soul
Since we were formed in God’s image, we are the only living beings with a soul. Our soul is part of us that the holy spirit possesses. It’s a part that is beyond human flesh and bone. This part is what we can’t understand but it exists and is sacred and divine to enable us to commune with God.
If a soul is saved by sincere confession of the risen Christ, the soul appears in heaven where Christ gives it a new immoral body this is found in 2 Corinthians 5:2 ‘For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven”. Ecclesiastes 12:7 tells us ‘Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it”.
The spirit of God dwells in us and when we die, it’s this spirit that goes back to God in heaven. So animals do not have God’s spirit nor do they have a soul, therefore saying they are in heaven is against what we know.
With our findings, we can finally say that animals, birds, and even our pets may or may not be found in heaven because they aren’t humans that have souls or spirits.
Will my Dog be in Heaven?
There are two different descriptions of the New Heaven and New Earth, and the scripture states that animals will be found there. Isaiah 11:11 says, “And it shall come to pass in that day, that the Lord shall set his hand again the second time to recover the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria, and Egypt, and from Pathros, and Cush, and Elam, and Shinar, and Hamath, and the islands of the sea.
This peaceful description of the relationship between the different species of animal is seen in three verses and another verse that says something about it is seen in Isaiah 65:25 which says “The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, and the lion shall eat straw like the bullock: and dust shall be the serpent’s meat. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain, saith the LORD”.
Although pets were not in the description, the fact animals are stated implies there is a possibility we will see dogs and other animals in heaven.
Since heaven is full of joy, God may bring these animals to heaven since they are all part of his creatures.
Final Thoughts
There is no guarantee that our animals or pets will be in heaven with us, but we should rest assured that God has made heaven in such a way that we will be comfortable without these animals. And our joy in heaven is not dependent on any earthly creature, because heaven is divinely and spiritually made.
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The Bible makes mention of crystals in some scriptures. The Bible talks about rubies and sapphires (Lamentations 4:7, Proverbs 8:11), and topaz (Job 28:19). For instance, the breastplate that the Levitical high priest wore had twelve stones, with each one inscribed with the names of the tribes of Israel: “The first row was carnelian, chrysolite, and beryl; the second row was turquoise, lapis lazuli, and emerald; the third row was jacinth, agate, and amethyst; the fourth row was topaz, onyx, and jasper. All were placed in gold filigree settings” (Exodus 39:10–13).
The river that flows from the throne is described as “clear as crystal” (Revelation 22:1), and the region before the throne is something like “a sea of glass, clear as crystal” (Revelation 4:6), and “spread out above the heads of the living creatures was what looked something like a vault, sparkling like crystal, and wonderful” (Ezekiel 1:22). The Bible never assigns any mystical properties to crystals.
Apart from being beautiful mineral structures, they are used for performing crystal healing. Crystal healing is a pseudoscience that intends to treat different illnesses. According to crystal healers, when you carefully place crystals on a patient’s body, it’s meant to align with or trigger the body’s chakras and enhance healing.
There is a belief that crystals have internal power that can be controlled and used for various purposes. Some use crystals to ward off evil spirits or negative energy and to attract fortune. At times, crystals are used in feng shui, believing they generate positive vibrations. Crystals that absorb too much negative energy during their use in a home need to be “cleansed” to readjust the vibrations.
However, these superstitious beliefs concerning crystals are not found in the Bible. The scripture never states that crystals are useful for acquiring wealth, reviving romance, or warding off evil spirits, nor does it talk about crystals being required to relate to God’s Spirit. On the other hand, the Bible discourages involvement in things connected to superstition and the occult. God detests superstitious beliefs and occultic practices, as found in Deuteronomy 18:10–12, and witchcraft is linked with idolatry as an ungodly act (Galatians 5:19–21). The use of crystals as amulets, charms, or talismans is an example of occultic practice. No matter how simple it may seem, anything that invokes the spirit world can be classified as witchcraft.
The use of crystals in a superstitious manner is an example of a generation altering what God has created and compromising to engage in ungodly acts. Crystals are indeed examples of God’s marvelous handiwork. It is not wrong to use crystals for decorating the home or wearing them as jewelry, but there is nothing inherently magical about them. Using crystals as protective tools is considered idolatry because it depends on external forces instead of relying on God’s power for healing and protection. This means it is essentially serving another god, and the Bible strongly condemns idolatry. You can find references to this in Deuteronomy 4:15–20; Jeremiah 44:1–4; 1 Corinthians 10:14–20; 2 Corinthians 6:16–17.
In the English Versions of the Bible, the word can also signify rock-crystal or crystallized quartz. The Greeks called it “krustallos,” meaning “ice,” because they believed it was formed from water through extreme cold. Thus, in Revelation 4:6, 21:11, and 22:1, either “crystal” (in English versions) or “ice” (in the Greek, “krustallos”) matches the text. The Bible uses the word “crystal” in Ezekiel 1:22 (qerach), which is referring to the same substance (the Revised Version margin also suggests “ice”).
What are the 12 crystals in the Bible?
The twelve sacred gemstones of Revelations are as follows Jasper, Sapphire, Chalcedony, Emerald, Sardonyx, Sardius, Chrysolite, Beryl, Topaz, Chrysoprasus, Jacinth, and Amethyst. The majority still believe that there is an obvious connection between the twelve apostles and the twelve gems from the walls of Jerusalem.
Where are crystals found in the Bible?
You can find crystals in Apoc., iv, 6; xxi, 11; xxii, 1. In Ps. cxlvii, 17, and Ecclus., xliii, 22. The word zkwkyh, Job, xxviii, 17, is also translated as crystal, meaning glass.
What is the meaning of spiritual crystals?
A very common belief is that crystals communicate with the body’s energy fields, which is also called vibrational energy. The perception is that crystals can push and re-channel the flow of energy with their specific energetic vibrations. This aids in unblocking regions of the body or energy field that are now “stuck.”
What does crystal mean in the Bible?
Crystal is a Hebrew Girl name and it means “Clear, Unblemished”.
Bible verse on crystals
1. Ezekiel 1:22
And the likeness of the firmament upon the heads of the living creature was as the colour of the terrible crystal, stretched forth over their heads above.
2. Revelation 4:6
And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal, and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind.
3. Exodus 28:18
The second row ruby, sapphire, and crystal;
4. Exodus 39:11
The second row ruby, sapphire, and crystal;
5. Job 28:17
The gold and the crystal cannot equal it: and the exchange of it shall not be for jewels of fine gold.
6. Job 28:18
Don’t even bother to mention coral and crystal wisdom is more valuable than a bag of rubies.
fine gold.
7. Ezekiel 1:22
Now over the heads of the living beings there was something like an expanse, like the awesome gleam of crystal, spread out over their heads.
8. Revelation 4:6
and before the throne there was something like a sea of glass, like crystal; and in the center and around the throne, four living creatures full of eyes in front and behind.
9. Revelation 21:11
having the glory of God. Her brilliance was like a very costly stone, as a stone of crystal-clear jasper.
10. Job 28:17-18
“Gold or glass cannot equal it,
Nor can it be exchanged for articles of fine gold.
“Coral and crystal are not to be mentioned;
And the acquisition of wisdom is above that of pearls.
Conclusion
According to the Bible, there is no spiritual attachment to crystals. Any other perception about crystals outside the Bible is superstitious, and Christians shouldn’t embrace it.
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The Bible is made up of new and old testaments, each having different books. As Christians, we are encouraged to study the Bible daily. But you might ask, “Where can I begin if I want to study?” This is a matter of concern for many Christians, especially for new converts. Seeing how voluminous the Bible is, they tend to lose interest.
So you might be wondering where to begin. Where exactly do Christian theologians and other clergy recommend that Christians start reading? Are there particular scriptures to read and others to push aside or read later? If you have been asking this question about what to do exactly, then I have the solution to clear the confusion in your head right now. Keep reading while I give you some guidelines.
Where Not To Start
I have had more non-believers ask me this than new Christians, and this is a great question. The Bible is not strictly written in chronological order. For example, the book of Job begins in the time frame of the book of Genesis. Some have tried to start at Genesis and go through the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and then Deuteronomy, but when they get to certain sections of the Old Testament, they get tired of the lengthy genealogies.
A good example is found in I Chronicles 9:11–12: “Azariah son of Hilkiah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Zadok, the son of Meraioth, the son of Ahitub, the official in charge of the house of God; Adaiah son of Jeroham, the son of Pashhur, the son of Malkijah; and Maasai son of Adiel, the son of Jahzerah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Meshillemith, the son of Immer.” You get the idea.
Where to Begin
The New Testament speaks more about Jesus Christ and his life on earth. It is more convenient for an unbeliever or a new Christian, to begin with, the New Testament, so they can have a clear introduction and understanding of who Christ is. When I made up my mind to start reading the Scripture, I began with the book of Matthew. It was much easier for me to comprehend as a baby Christian. I found it interesting to read. I read through Matthew, which has the genealogy of Jesus Christ and how he began his ministry.
The books of Mark, Luke, and John have the story of Jesus Christ’s ministry, suffering, death, and resurrection. These books have related stories written differently by their authors. But they all have similar messages about the life of Christ. The only difference is that Mark and Luke have longer stories. Although after the crucifixion of Christ, John was present, so in that aspect, it has a more detailed story.
The first recommendation I will give is to read the book of the Gospel. It’s a good start for new Christians. The next book of the Bible begins in Genesis. This is the beginning of the holy bible, it entails the creation of God and its magnificent power. It tells us about his sovereignty.
It tells us how God created heaven and earth and humans in his image and likeness. It also portrays how humans disobeyed God and the punishment they received afterwards.
A Guide for New or Non-Believers
Most times, when I am asked by unbelievers or new Christians about where to begin reading the Bible, I usually give my recommendation. Although some people would say you should start from Genesis to Revelation. If it were an old Christian who normally reads the Bible, it would be very easy, but for a new Christian, it would be discouraging.
When you begin something new, you must start from where you will easily flow. Reading from the book of Revelation, for example, will reduce the interest in reading further. As a new convert or unbeliever who has little or no idea about the Bible, you have to start with a simpler scripture. This will help you understand God’s word by introducing you to Jesus Christ, his son.
The most challenging aspect of reading the Bible is getting started, a lot of people get stuck at this point. They become confused about where to begin.
The word of God is powerful and is our weapon against the devil. Studying the bible enhances our relationship with God and also draws us closer to God. He uses the scripture to open our eyes to obey his instructions. We can know how to behave as believers. The Bible is a guide for Christians. The word consoles us in times of difficulty, admonishes us, and also tells us what is expected of us.
God’s word gives comfort, consolation, peace, healing, joy, hope, etc. We draw strength from God’s word. Every issue we face is addressed in the Bible; you just have to search for it. As the Bible says, “The joy of the Lord is my strength.” The Bible is a believer’s book guide to lead you. Every message was written to keep us in check. If you study the Bible, you get to know more about God and understand him better. When I had a very serious health challenge, it was the word of God that gave me hope and boosted my trust in God.
Making the Bible a daily routine to study is a spiritual way of feeding the mind. The more you study the word, the closer you are to God. Gradually you hear from God, you understand his word to a point where you can state it without looking at the scriptures. Studying the word opens our spiritual eyes and gives us spiritual strength. It keeps us in check and reminds us of God’s unending love for us. If you are familiar with the Scriptures, when you are about to err, remembering his word will help you retrace your steps.
The 5 Places to Start Reading the Bible
1. The Gospel of John
This scripture is a good starting point for new believers. It tells us about Jesus Christ and his ministry and it gives a better understanding of his mission. Other gospels such as Luke, Mathew, and Mark talk about Jesus Christ’s mission but the gospel of John specifically talks more about the person of Jesus than his work.
2. Romans
The book of Romans which is the New Testament is another good place to start reading. It enlightens us on our Faith. It specifically gives us the instructions that will help us grow spiritually. Since we want to attain heaven by living upright it’s good we begin from here to get more insight.
3. Psalms
Psalms is a prayer scripture and a verse that gives hope. When you go through Psalms very well you notice it’s more of a prayer request from the prophets of old. The book of Psalms gives us hope, healing, and the assurance that God will always fight for us. That’s why some people call it the Psalms of Prayer.
4. Proverbs
It is one of the most powerful scriptures, filled with wisdom. If you seek biblical wisdom and knowledge, you can start with proverbs as well. It has instructions and a biblical guide that will direct you in your daily activities. You can also call it the Book of Wisdom, although there’s the Book of Wisdom in the Old Testament.
5. Genesis
Genesis, being the beginning of the Bible, is a good place to start if you want to get a better understanding of the whole word of God from creation. But if you ask me, I wouldn’t recommend it to you to begin with.
It’s not a bad idea, though. Where you begin doesn’t count, as long as you understand what you study. When I started studying the word, I began with the book of Mathew. The reason is that I just wanted to flow with the scriptures in a way that I would get to know about the life of Christ first. Believe me when I say it’s easier to understand the Bible when you begin with the New Testament. You might say it’s a personal idea but it worked for me.
Conclusion
When you study the Bible, you are building your spiritual mind. The word of God is food for our minds and soul. Don’t just start, follow the guidelines and you will find it interesting to study God’s word.
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Gossip is an Idle talk about someone’s private or personal matters, especially someone not present in that scene. Most times we believe gossiping is just when you ridicule someone behind their back. Gossip goes beyond that, you can say something true about someone, but as long as the person is not there with you, it’s gossip. In simple terms, gossiping is the act of discussing other people’s affairs in their absence. God forbids this act and the book of Proverbs emphasises gossip.
Proverbs 11:13. Says “A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret”
This scripture summarises what gossip is. In clear terms, you are betraying the person in question. Though not in your actions but in words. The tongue is the most powerful and dangerous part of the body, it can save and also kill. You might be wondering why it’s a betrayal. The reason is the subject of the discussion is not present. Their absence automatically makes it gossip.
The quasi-newton here is, that when you begin a conversation about someone who isn’t present, there Is a possibility it will lead to gossip. Whether it’s intentional or not.
Is gossip a sinful act?
The Bible tells us that Gossip is a sin. Even if you aren’t a Christian, humanity frowns against it. Gossiping is a devilish act. It’s contrary to the way God expects us to behave towards each other. He doesn’t want us to betray our neighbours that is why he is against it. We ought to be kind with our words and what we say about people. If you are still in doubt, “know this now gossip is a sin”.
If you involve yourself in gossip it’s bad. Now is the time you should desist from it. A lot of people have wrecked others’ reputations through gossiping. Some even cook up stories just to tarnish someone’s image. They speak ill words about that person.
Bible Verses about Gossiping
Below are some bible verses that talk about gossip.
1. Proverbs 16:28 says “A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends”
2. Proverbs 20:19 says “A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much”
3. 1 Timothy 5:13 says “And if they are on the list, they will learn to be lazy and will spend their time gossiping from house to house, meddling in other people’s business and talking about things they shouldn’t”.
4. Psalm 141:3
Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; Keep watch over the door of my lips.
5. Ephesians 4:29
Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear.
6. Proverbs 20:19
He who goes about as a slanderer reveals secrets, Therefore do not associate with a gossip.
7. Psalm 34:13
Keep your tongue from evil, and your lips from speaking deceit.
8. Proverbs 11:13
He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets, But he who is trustworthy conceals a matter.
9. Ephesians 4:29
Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear.
10. Proverbs 16:28
A perverse man spreads strife, and a slanderer separates intimate friends.
11. Titus 3:2
To malign no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing every consideration for all men.
12. Exodus 23:1
“You shall not bear a false report; do not join your hand with a wicked man to be a malicious witness.
13. James 4:11
Do not speak against one another, brethren. He who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks against the law and judges the law; but if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge of it.
14. Proverbs 26:20
For lack of wood the fire goes out, and where there is no whisperer, contention quiets down.
15. James 1:26
If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man’s religion is worthless.
16. Psalm 101:5
Whoever secretly slanders his neighbor, him I will destroy; No one who has a haughty look and an arrogant heart will I endure.
How to Control Gossiping?
1. Shut it down
Now that you know gossip is a sinful act, you have to stop engaging yourself in it. Shut it down, don’t involve yourself in it. If you find yourself in a place where they gossip, is either you walk out or shut your mouth.
2. Shout it out
Do not allow yourself to fall victim to gossiping. Like the bible says if your mouth will lead you to sin cut it off. So instead of getting involved when you find yourself in such a scenario shut it out and free yourself of the guilt of becoming a gossiper.
3. Shield don’t shovel
When gossip is about to begin you should sense it and try to protect the person’s image that is been damaged. Instead of joining them to gossip, condemn their act and speak against it. Shield the person’s image don’t dig out a dirty part, even if is true.
Conclusion
Gossip is a sin no matter how you try to beautify, the fact still remains that you are speaking about someone in their absence. So in other not to be guilty shield and don’t shovel.
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