Category: Bible Study

They were overjoyed at seeing the star.” —Matthew 2:10 For centuries, astronomers have tried to determine which celestial body was the star of Bethlehem. In the book of Numbers, it was prophesied that the star not only led the wise men to Jesus, but that the star was Jesus (Nm 24:17). Jesus is “the Morning Star shining bright” (Rv 22:16). Paul taught that not only was Jesus like a star, but also we, Jesus’ disciples, are like the stars in the sky while holding fast to the word of life in the midst of a twisted and depraved generation (see...

“Children, it is the final hour.” –1 John 2:18 On this last day of the year, let us: take out all the garbage of the year 2021 and any other years, finish any unfinished business, repent and confess all our sins (see 1 Jn 1:9), forgive all who have sinned against us (see Mt 6:12), be reconciled with those who have something against us (see Mt 5:23ff), answer every calling from God, and obey all God’s commands (see 1 Jn 5:3). Let’s not wait till next year to accept the graces of this year. We don’t want the baggage of...

“Carnal allurements, enticements for the eye, the life of empty show – all these are from the world. And the world with its seductions is passing away.” –1 John 2:16-17 “Allurements,” “enticements,” and “seductions” are three English translations of the same Greek word. The Revised Standard Version (RSV-CE) Bible translates the Greek word as “lust.” However, the English word “lust” has dominant sexual connotations, which would not be as emphatic in the Greek word, which means “strong desires” of many kinds. Desires stemming from selfishness, concupiscence, and pride are used by the worldly to manipulate and trap us. After the...

“Now, Master, You can dismiss Your servant in peace; You have fulfilled Your word. For my eyes have witnessed Your saving deed.” –Luke 2:29-30 Most people associate Christmas with love. All of us like to think of ourselves as being loving. Most people even say that love is the meaning of life. But what is love? Love is not necessarily a feeling. It is not usually expressed in sexual attraction or sexual relations. It is not merely being nice to people or doing good deeds for others. Love is the nature of God, for God is Love (1 Jn 4:8,...