F. F. Bruce is one of those scholars I have had to spend a lot of time reading in seminary. He researched and wrote some of the best material that exists on the history of the Bible and its accuracy. In studying the ancient texts that we have, Bruce has noted that there are only around nine or ten manuscripts of Caesar’s Gallic War, which was composed between 58 and 50 BC. The oldest manuscript we have originates from 900 years later.
Joseph had the easier task in that divine project.
Whereas, Mary had to deliver, laboriously and painfully, the child in adverse conditions--no walk in the park--her betrothed only had to secure the scene for that long-expected delivery, while believing God--with the help of a divinely-inspired dream-- that there was no basis to suspect Mary's infidelity.
Later, Joe had his opportunities to reap the benefits of marital bliss with Mary. He must have done an admirable job as the adoptive father. . . Jesus turned out to be a Son that any Father would be proud of.
Truth. That is what we have in the Bible. We always hope but seldom see real truth in earthly government. The kingdom of which Christ is king is the one whose government ultimately matters. That government is on the shoulder of the risen Christ. No vote flipping or poison pill legislation in this government. Praise the Lord who reigns forever!
I did not have the privilege of studying under Bruce Metzger in seminary, as he was professor emeritus during my time. But I did bump into him in the post office of the seminary one day and introduced myself. He was scholarly gentleman, to say the least.
Studying political philosophy under Peter Lawler as an undergraduate was even more special, though. Were he alive today, he would be embarrassed for me saying this, but he is a great non-Evangelical (although he was very evangelical in his own subtle way!) source for pointing out how our fallen human nature points us toward the truth (revealed and discovered) that is in Christ and Christianity.
This was wonderful piece ! Thank you Erick for writing this so eloquently !
Refreshing change from political talk!
Merry Christmas to you and your family! Much love and laughter in the New Year !
Joseph had the easier task in that divine project.
Whereas, Mary had to deliver, laboriously and painfully, the child in adverse conditions--no walk in the park--her betrothed only had to secure the scene for that long-expected delivery, while believing God--with the help of a divinely-inspired dream-- that there was no basis to suspect Mary's infidelity.
Later, Joe had his opportunities to reap the benefits of marital bliss with Mary. He must have done an admirable job as the adoptive father. . . Jesus turned out to be a Son that any Father would be proud of.
I needed this message today! Thank you!
Amen.
Truth. That is what we have in the Bible. We always hope but seldom see real truth in earthly government. The kingdom of which Christ is king is the one whose government ultimately matters. That government is on the shoulder of the risen Christ. No vote flipping or poison pill legislation in this government. Praise the Lord who reigns forever!
Amen and Thank You Brother Erick!
I did not have the privilege of studying under Bruce Metzger in seminary, as he was professor emeritus during my time. But I did bump into him in the post office of the seminary one day and introduced myself. He was scholarly gentleman, to say the least.
Studying political philosophy under Peter Lawler as an undergraduate was even more special, though. Were he alive today, he would be embarrassed for me saying this, but he is a great non-Evangelical (although he was very evangelical in his own subtle way!) source for pointing out how our fallen human nature points us toward the truth (revealed and discovered) that is in Christ and Christianity.