In a world increasingly shaped by scientific discovery and skeptical worldviews, many people assume that belief in God is outdated or irrational. Yet, a careful examination of our minds—our ability to reason, think abstractly, and experience consciousness—points strongly toward the existence of a Creator. This idea, often referred to as the Argument from Reason , provides a compelling case for God’s existence, making belief in Him not only reasonable but also deeply rational. 1. Rational Minds from Non-Rational Processes? One of the fundamental questions posed by Christian thinkers like C.S. Lewis is this: If the universe is solely the product of blind, non-rational forces, how did rational beings like us come to exist? According to atheistic evolution, life—including human consciousness—emerged from random processes without any intentional guidance. But this leaves us with a puzzling question: Why would these non-rational forces produce beings capable of logical thought? C.S. Lewis likened it to the random splash of milk falling off a table. Would we expect that splash to contain useful information about how the carton fell? Similarly, if the evolutionary process has no goal or intention, it seems unlikely it would generate beings capable of abstract thinking and reasoning. The Christian worldview, however, offers a more fitting explanation: We were created in the image of a rational God, and therefore our ability to think rationally reflects His nature. 2. Evolution and Rational Thinking Atheists argue that evolution, through natural selection, could have favored creatures with better cognitive abilities, increasing their survival chances. But this view encounters several challenges. Natural selection ensures survival, not truth or rational thought. A being doesn’t necessarily need accurate beliefs to survive—it just needs behaviors that promote survival. For example, a mouse might irrationally believe that a snake is friendly but still survive by instinctively fleeing. Rational thinking is not essential for survival, making it hard to explain how evolution alone could give rise to human reason. Moreover, many living organisms—like bacteria and plants—function perfectly well without rational minds. If survival is possible without rational thought, why would evolution produce it at all? 3. The Nature of Consciousness The existence of consciousness presents yet another challenge for atheistic explanations. Consciousness is the personal awareness of our thoughts, emotions, and surroundings. While materialists try to argue that consciousness arises from brain activity, it remains fundamentally different from anything purely physical. Conscious experiences, often called qualia , are deeply personal. No one can experience your pain or see the world exactly as you do. This subjective nature of consciousness is hard to reconcile with the idea that we are merely made of atoms and molecules. Even atheistic philosophers like Thomas Nagel have admitted the difficulty of explaining consciousness. In his essay, What Is It Like to Be a Bat? , Nagel argues that no amount of physical knowledge about a bat’s brain can fully explain what it is like to be a bat. Consciousness remains a mystery that material explanations alone cannot solve. 4. A Biblical Answer to Rationality and Consciousness The Christian faith provides a coherent and satisfying explanation for our rationality and consciousness. Genesis teaches that human beings were created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27). This means that we reflect God’s nature, including His rationality. God, who is all-knowing and logical, designed us with the ability to think, reason, and seek truth. This perspective makes sense of why we can understand the world and make sense of abstract concepts like justice, love, and beauty. It also explains why our identity remains constant over time, even though our bodies change. According to Christianity, we are not just physical beings; we are body and soul. Our soul, an immaterial part of us, grounds our personal identity and allows us to think rationally and experience consciousness. 5. The Limits of Atheism Atheists often struggle to explain the origins of rationality and consciousness. Philosopher Daniel Dennett has gone so far as to claim that consciousness is an illusion—an argument that has been widely criticized. After all, if consciousness were an illusion, we would need to be conscious to experience that illusion, making his claim self-contradictory. Many atheists also assume, without sufficient evidence, that consciousness will eventually be explained as an emergent property of complex physical systems, like how water feels wet. However, rational thought and consciousness possess qualities that cannot be reduced to physical matter. The Christian view provides a more satisfying answer: Rationality has existed from the beginning because God, a rational being, created the world and designed human beings to reflect His nature. Faith and Reason in Harmony Belief in God is not a leap into irrationality. On the contrary, it is a reasonable response to the realities of our minds and consciousness. Rationality and consciousness fit naturally within a theistic framework, where a personal God designed the world with purpose and intentionality. The Christian worldview explains not only why we can think and reason but also why our thoughts align with reality. Atheism, with its insistence on a purely material universe, struggles to account for the very faculties that make us human. The more we explore the nature of our minds, the more we find that belief in God is not just compatible with reason—it is the most rational conclusion. 1. Lewis, C.S. Miracles: A Preliminary Study.  HarperOne, 2001. 2. Nagel, Thomas. What Is It Like to Be a Bat?   The Philosophical Review , vol. 83, no. 4, 1974, pp. 435–450. 3. Nagel, Thomas. Mind and Cosmos: Why the Materialist Neo-Darwinian Conception of Nature Is Almost Certainly False.  Oxford University Press, 2012. 4. Dennett, Daniel. Consciousness Explained.  Back Bay Books, 1992. 5. Reppert, Victor. C.S. Lewis’s Dangerous Idea: In Defense of the Argument from Reason.  InterVarsity Press, 2003.

The 16th BRICS Summit is now underway in Kazan, Russia, drawing leaders from 36 countries. Among those in attendance are Chinese President Xi, Indian Prime Minister Modi, and the presidents of South Africa and Egypt. However, a few key figures opted out—Brazil’s President Lula canceled due to health issues, and Serbia’s Vučić had other plans with Poland. In the days leading up to the summit, locals were warned not to drive old cars to “maintain appearances,” and during the event, phone networks have been jammed, with telecoms citing security concerns. It’s a big event with lots of political heavyweights—though, as always, some have gone out of their way to avoid it. This summit marks a significant milestone—BRICS has expanded from just five nations to 36. Officially, the Kremlin describes this growth as a testament to a “multipolar world” and an anti-colonial movement, showcasing Russia’s alliances with countries that represent more than half of the global population. But what is BRICS really about? And how did it come to hold such symbolic weight? BRICS began in 2001 when Russia and China had small economies, barely contributing to global GDP. Back then, they were still scraping by, with untapped potential. It was Jim O’Neill from Goldman Sachs who first coined the term “BRICs” in a paper, grouping Brazil, Russia, India, and China based on their economic potential. His timing was strategic—just after 9/11, when many analysts thought Western dominance was on the decline, making way for new powers. The theory was that these four nations, with their vast populations and cheap labor, were poised for rapid growth. O’Neill’s paper suggested they were “bricks” of a new economic order, solid investments in a changing world. His catchy acronym took off, and by the 2000s, the economies of these countries surged—particularly China, which is now the second-largest economy. Investors profited handsomely, with Goldman Sachs cashing in on the hype. But BRICS soon evolved beyond economics and entered the political arena. In 2006, the four countries began formal meetings and committed to closer collaboration. By 2009, Yekaterinburg hosted the first official BRIC summit. A year later, South Africa joined the group, turning BRIC into BRICS. In 2024, more members came on board—Egypt, Iran, the UAE, and Ethiopia. Others, like Argentina and Turkey, expressed interest but haven’t taken the plunge. However, despite its expansion, BRICS remains more of a conversation club than a real alliance. The group makes bold statements but lacks the structures or institutions of a bloc like the EU or NATO. Member countries don’t sacrifice sovereignty for integration. Their decisions need to be unanimous, and apart from the New Development Bank (NDB), which funds infrastructure projects, there’s little in the way of joint action. Even the NDB cut ties with Russia when sanctions hit. The idea of using national currencies for trade has been floated, but nothing concrete has come of it. And although a shared currency was once considered, the economic differences between these nations make it unlikely. BRICS nations are more connected to Western economies than to each other, relying on them for investment, exports, and technology. China may be the glue holding the group together, but it’s also the largest player by far, with a GDP that dwarfs the rest combined. In reality, the interests of these countries often clash. China and India are regional rivals, each vying for influence and market access. Brazil and Russia, meanwhile, have their own trade commitments—Brazil with MERCOSUR, and Russia with the Eurasian Economic Union—making deeper BRICS cooperation complicated. The idea of an economic coalition simply doesn’t align with the messy realities of international trade and diplomacy. By the 2010s, the initial optimism surrounding BRICS had started to fade. While China’s economy continued to grow, doubts arose about the reliability of its numbers. Meanwhile, Russia and Brazil failed to live up to expectations, struggling with stagnant productivity and missed opportunities. Instead of becoming engines of global growth, they stumbled under the weight of poor governance and economic mismanagement. Today, it’s clear that BRICS doesn’t have a unified vision. New members are mostly interested in forging closer ties with China and India rather than building a coherent alliance. Most of the declarations made at these summits are vague statements about world order and climate change, with little follow-through. The main focus now seems to be on expanding membership, though setting specific goals would likely cause friction among members with divergent interests. At its core, BRICS was never meant to be an anti-Western alliance. When Jim O’Neill introduced the term, it was a way to spotlight emerging economies, not a call for geopolitical realignment. In truth, these countries have more differences than common ground. China benefits from low oil prices, which would devastate Russia’s economy. Meanwhile, India sees economic opportunities in China’s trade conflicts with the U.S., rather than plotting with China to challenge the West. In contrast to functional organizations like the EU or NATO, BRICS feels more like an occasional reunion. Its members meet, make broad commitments, and then go their separate ways. There’s little evidence of meaningful cooperation between countries like India, South Africa, and Brazil. The real beneficiary of these summits seems to be Russian President Vladimir Putin, who uses them to maintain an image of relevance on the world stage. Hosting these gatherings allows him to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with other leaders—a spectacle that serves his personal narrative in an era of increasing isolation. Ultimately, BRICS may be little more than a vanity project, propped up by meetings that create the illusion of progress. But in a political system built on appearances, that may be all that matters.

The decision by Russian President Vladimir Putin to seek North Korean troops for deployment in Ukraine has cast a harsh spotlight on Europe’s military unpreparedness. This development has prompted European nations to confront uncomfortable truths about their defense capabilities and exposed the continent’s reliance on outdated assumptions about peace, diplomacy, and U.S. protection. Europe’s Military at a Crossroads Since the Cold War ended, Europe operated under the belief that armed conflict was an unlikely prospect. European integration projects, such as the European Union, focused on strengthening economic ties, ensuring political cooperation, and leaving military conflict in the past. Defense budgets were trimmed, and militaries, once central to national identities, faded into near irrelevance. This neglect became glaringly obvious following Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014, but few European nations treated it as a sign of looming danger. Much of Europe continued to divert resources from military infrastructure toward economic development and welfare programs, further weakening defense capabilities. Even NATO, the transatlantic defense alliance, shifted its focus to non-combat issues like climate change, leaving many of its military commitments underfunded and symbolic. Now, as the war in Ukraine grinds on with staggering losses and growing regional instability, Europe must come to terms with its defense shortcomings. Putin’s recruitment of North Korean troops reflects Russia’s willingness to escalate and involve new players, underscoring the stakes for European leaders. Despite immense financial resources, Europe finds itself struggling to maintain combat-ready forces. The Decline of European Militaries For years, Europe’s military power has eroded to the point that Bloomberg recently described many of its armed forces as “Potemkin armies” – military structures that appear functional but lack real operational strength. For example, France, with an army of 250,000 soldiers, would struggle to field a fully equipped combat force. Across the continent, defense equipment lies idle, with tanks, aircraft, and other resources suffering from years of neglect. This military weakness is a direct consequence of Europe’s long-held assumption that the U.S. would always guarantee its security. With the U.S. seen as the ultimate backstop, European nations prioritized economic growth, social programs, and infrastructure over maintaining robust militaries. Even the arrival of new NATO members, such as Finland, was celebrated as a rare boost to Europe’s defense capabilities—despite the fact that Finland, with a relatively small population, still manages to field a better-trained military than many larger European countries. Shifting U.S. Priorities and Europe’s Wake-Up Call Another troubling development for Europe is the shifting political landscape in the U.S. In recent years, calls to reduce America’s global military commitments and scale back NATO’s influence have gained traction. The combination of a protracted war in Ukraine and wavering U.S. support leaves Europe vulnerable. The war has already shown that modern conflict is not a relic of the past, as European leaders once believed. The battlefield realities unfolding in Ukraine—marked by trench warfare, high casualties, and escalating tensions—are uncomfortably close to European borders. A New Era of Militarization? Putin’s decision to engage North Korea signals that Russia is prepared to push the conflict further, forcing Europe to rethink its pacifist stance. European leaders are now increasing defense budgets and scrambling to rebuild military capabilities that were long neglected. The days of assuming diplomacy could prevent all wars are over, replaced by a growing consensus that military preparedness is no longer optional. This shift is both inevitable and risky. European nations are beginning to recognize that their security can no longer depend entirely on U.S. intervention. However, rebuilding military capacity will take time, and Europe must contend with the political challenges of refocusing its priorities. Many of today’s European politicians are accustomed to addressing domestic issues like welfare and immigration, not leading military efforts. While Europe is far from being able to mount a credible military challenge to Russia, the recognition of its vulnerabilities marks a turning point. Defense budgets are increasing, foreign weapons are being purchased, and discussions about mandatory military service are gaining traction in several countries. This gradual militarization, while still in its early stages, signals Europe’s growing determination to protect its interests. Bad News for Putin Putin’s actions have inadvertently accelerated Europe’s move toward rearmament. The involvement of North Korea in the conflict has shattered illusions that the war will remain contained to Ukraine. European leaders now see the need to prepare for the possibility of broader conflict, even if they are not yet ready to confront Russia head-on. The coming years will likely witness a steady militarization of Europe, driven by the recognition that relying solely on diplomacy or U.S. protection is no longer sustainable. For Putin, this realization is a strategic setback. As European nations rearm and strengthen their military alliances, the balance of power in the region could shift, limiting Russia’s ability to leverage future conflicts. While Europe’s reawakening may not deter Putin immediately, it sends a clear message: the era of complacency is over, and the continent is beginning to confront the hard realities of the 21st century. War is once again part of Europe’s strategic thinking, and Europe must prepare to stand on its own.

After reading numerous articles about President Trump’s stint as a fry cook at a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania, it became clear that the mainstream media harbors a deep, palpable fear of the prospect of his return to the White House—and not without justification. Trump is a leader who doesn’t bow to political correctness or elite expectations. He challenges the status quo in ways that unsettle those in power, including the media establishment. His return represents more than just a political comeback—it’s a chance to restore values, freedom, and fairness in a country that desperately needs it. The media’s relentless hostility toward Trump is rooted in fear—fear of losing control. For decades, mainstream media outlets have acted as gatekeepers, shaping public opinion and setting the narrative. But Trump’s direct, unfiltered communication disrupts that monopoly. Through platforms like Truth Social, he speaks directly to the American people, bypassing networks that often twist stories to fit their agendas. The media hates that they can’t control his message, and they fear what they can’t control. As Christians, we know that standing for truth often invites opposition. Trump’s willingness to call out corruption and challenge media lies is exactly what this nation needs. When he labeled the media as “fake news,” many in the press were outraged. But the truth is, the media’s bias has become obvious. They often attack conservative voices, while giving a free pass to liberal politicians who push anti-family, anti-faith policies. Trump sees through the hypocrisy, and so do many of us. The media also fears Trump because he stands in the way of their progressive agenda. Under his leadership, we saw policies that protected religious liberty, defended the unborn, and promoted traditional values. Meanwhile, the media has aligned itself with a cultural movement that mocks these principles. They support radical policies on gender, marriage, and life that are at odds with our faith. Another Trump presidency threatens to derail their plans, and that’s why they oppose him so fiercely. Beyond narrative control, the media fears Trump because he exposes their lack of credibility. Over the years, they’ve tried to discredit him with negative coverage, endless investigations, and sensational headlines. But what did it accomplish? Despite all their efforts, Trump’s base has only grown stronger. That’s because people are tired of being lied to and manipulated. We know the media wants us to conform, but Trump gives us the courage to stand firm. The stakes couldn’t be higher in 2024. The media, along with the political elites, want a government that bends to their will. They want a leader who will rubber-stamp their agenda, not one who puts America—and God—first. That’s why they fear Trump, and that’s why I believe he is the right choice for president. We should be voting for Trump not just because of his policies, but because he has the courage to fight for what’s right. He’s not perfect—none of us are—but he stands up against those who seek to silence us. And in a time when truth is under attack, that kind of leadership is exactly what America needs.

The study of woolly mammoths on Wrangel Island offers fresh insight into genetics, extinction, and creation, while providing intriguing parallels with the biblical Flood narrative. Found marooned on this remote Arctic island, the last mammoth population offers clues about their survival, reproduction, and eventual extinction, revealing that creation can endure even through extreme trials. The Mammoth Bottleneck on Wrangel Island Wrangel Island, located in the Arctic Ocean, was once connected to the mainland during the Ice Age. Lower sea levels allowed mammoths to roam freely across Siberia and the Arctic regions. However, as the climate warmed and glaciers melted, rising water levels cut off Wrangel Island, isolating a small group of mammoths. This led to a population bottleneck—a situation where genetic diversity shrinks due to a small starting population. Scientists studying the mammoth remains on the island initially thought these animals had bred themselves out of existence due to intense inbreeding, a process known as mutational meltdown. However, new genetic evidence reveals that these mammoths, despite their isolation, were able to avoid catastrophic genetic collapse. The population started with what scientists call an “effective size” of eight individuals, meaning the genetic diversity in the group was comparable to what would be expected from eight unrelated animals. Although they could not avoid inbreeding entirely, the study found that high-impact harmful mutations did not accumulate over time, allowing the group to remain genetically viable for generations. The mammoths eventually went extinct, but the study raises questions about what ultimately caused their disappearance—whether it was gradual environmental change or a sudden climatic event. A Biblical Parallel: Noah’s Ark and Genetic Bottlenecks The survival story of Wrangel Island’s mammoths offers intriguing parallels with the biblical narrative of Noah’s Ark. After the Flood, only eight people—Noah, his wife, his three sons, and their wives—remained to repopulate the earth. Just as with the mammoths, this bottleneck could have raised concerns about genetic viability. However, the Bible suggests that God’s design allowed humanity not only to survive but to flourish, despite starting with a small population. The mammoth study also challenges fears about bottlenecks causing extinction. Genetic bottlenecks inevitably lead to some loss of diversity, yet they also present an opportunity for harmful mutations to be purged from the population. In small groups, slightly deleterious mutations may increase, but catastrophic mutations that would threaten survival are more likely to be removed over time. This finding reinforces the idea that God’s creation is resilient and capable of thriving even after periods of great hardship, such as the Flood. Additionally, the study offers insight into how life may have thrived in a post-Flood world. Warmer oceans, likely caused by the aftermath of the Flood, created new environmental conditions that allowed animals like the mammoth to survive in areas that are now barren. The survival of these creatures for thousands of years on a remote island highlights the persistence and adaptability that God built into all living beings. A Lesson in Endurance and Hope For believers, the story of the last mammoths provides more than just scientific curiosity—it offers a message of hope. The mammoths faced environmental challenges, isolation, and inbreeding, yet their population persisted for millennia. Similarly, humanity today is not immune to challenges, whether personal, social, or environmental. Yet, just as these mammoths endured for generations, Christians are called to trust in God’s providence, believing that He provides what is needed to thrive, even when circumstances seem overwhelming. This study reminds us that God’s creation, despite its fragility, is designed to endure. It emphasizes that even when life seems reduced to its most basic elements—such as a small group of animals or people—there is still potential for survival, growth, and renewal under God’s care. Just as the mammoths of Wrangel Island persisted in isolation, Christians are called to persevere through trials, knowing that faith in God offers strength and hope. In the end, the fate of the mammoths serves as a call to both marvel at God’s intricate creation and to remain hopeful in life’s uncertainties. The resilience displayed by these animals encourages us to recognize that God’s plan includes not only moments of trial but also opportunities for renewal and growth. References: 1. Dehasque, M., et al. “Temporal Dynamics of Woolly Mammoth Genome Extension Prior to Extinction.” Cell  187 (2024): 3531–3540. 2. Carter, R. “Inbreeding and the Origin of Races.” Journal of Creation  27, no. 3 (2013): 124–127. 3. Carter, R.W. “Effective Population Sizes and Loss of Diversity During the Flood Bottleneck.” Journal of Creation  32, no. 2 (2018): 124–127.

In 2023 and 2024, two groundbreaking archaeological discoveries have emerged, shedding light on significant moments in biblical history. These findings—the discovery of a 2,700-year-old seal in Jerusalem and a Roman prison in ancient Corinth—provide fascinating new insights into the lives of biblical figures and the early Christian community. The Seal of Yeho’ezer: Evidence of Judah’s Bureaucracy and Literacy One of the most recent and remarkable discoveries is the unearthing of a 2,700-year-old seal in Jerusalem. This ancient artifact, dating back to the First Temple period, was found near the Southern Wall of the Temple Mount. The seal bears the inscription “LeYeho’ezer ben Hosh’ayahu” in paleo-Hebrew, alongside a depiction of a winged figure. Such seals were used in official correspondence and are crucial in understanding the administrative and bureaucratic systems of ancient Judah. Rare First Temple-era seal found in Jerusalem (Credit: Emil Aladjem/IAA) What makes this discovery particularly significant is the possible connection between the names on the seal and figures from the Bible. The name Hosh’ayahu (meaning “the Lord saves”) is found in the Old Testament, such as in the name Hosea, and Yeho’ezer (meaning “the Lord helps”) is also a name found in historical contexts. This suggests that the seal may have belonged to a prominent official in the Kingdom of Judah, highlighting the literacy and organization within the kingdom during that period. The Bible speaks to the importance of officials and leaders in the courts of the kings of Judah. For example, in 2 Kings 22:12, King Josiah sent his officials to consult with the prophetess Huldah, indicating the significant role that bureaucrats played in the kingdom’s governance. Credit: Emil Aladjem/IAA The discovery of this seal enriches our understanding of the daily life and administrative workings of the biblical period, reaffirming the Bible’s portrayal of the First Temple era as a time of political and religious activity. Corinth’s Roman Prison: A Glimpse into Early Christian Struggles Another fascinating discovery from 2024 is the identification of a Roman prison in ancient Corinth. Archaeologists uncovered this site along with graffiti left by prisoners, some of which include direct appeals to Christ for divine justice. The prison, dating back to the Roman era, offers a glimpse into the harsh conditions faced by prisoners, particularly early Christians who, like Paul, suffered for their faith. Ancient Corinth The Apostle Paul spent a significant amount of time in Corinth, and the discovery of this prison brings to life the environment that he and other early Christians may have encountered. Paul himself was no stranger to imprisonment, as he mentions several times in his letters, such as in Philippians 1:13: “It has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ.” This prison may have been similar to the places where Paul and others endured suffering for the sake of the Gospel. Moreover, the inscriptions in the prison show how prisoners turned to their faith, echoing Paul’s own message of hope and endurance in the face of persecution. In 2 Corinthians 12:10, Paul wrote, “For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” The pleas for divine justice found in the graffiti reveal a community that, despite their circumstances, continued to place their trust in Christ, much like the early Christians described in the New Testament. Connecting Past and Present These discoveries reaffirm the historical reliability of the Bible and provide deeper context to the lives of those who lived during the biblical period. The seal from Jerusalem shows how even in times of political and social upheaval, the leaders of Judah maintained a structured and literate society, as portrayed in the Bible. Meanwhile, the prison in Corinth offers a window into the lived experience of early Christians, whose faith endured despite Roman persecution. As Christians today, these archaeological finds invite us to reflect on the faithfulness of God throughout history. The Bible is not just a spiritual text, but a living document rooted in real events and real people. Just as the seal and the prison testify to the existence of these biblical figures and communities, they remind us that our faith is built on a firm foundation—one grounded in history, but pointing us towards an eternal future. The Jerusalem seal and the Corinth prison graffiti stand as powerful witnesses to the truth of the Bible. They provide tangible links to the past, affirming the historical accuracy of the Scriptures while offering new insights into the experiences of biblical figures and early Christians. As these discoveries continue to be studied, they will no doubt deepen our understanding of the Bible and encourage us in our faith journey. “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope” (Romans 15:4).

I’ve been following President Trump’s recent warnings with growing concern. Trump has rightfully pointed to the Biden administration’s failures on the global stage, highlighting serious risks that could push us toward a larger conflict. The threats are real, but let’s also be clear: our faith, our values, and our commitment to preserving America’s strength will be the key to avoiding disaster—not just electing a leader out of fear of what may happen otherwise. Trump’s record on peace speaks for itself. Under his administration, we saw historic progress in the Middle East with the Abraham Accords. There was no war with Russia, no large-scale escalation in Ukraine, and he kept adversaries like Iran in check. Contrast that with what we’re seeing now: Iran has been emboldened, launching missiles into Israel, and the war in Ukraine drags on with no clear end in sight. Biden’s weak leadership has shown the world that America under his watch is a paper tiger, unwilling to stand strong for freedom and stability. Now we must ask ourselves a deeper question. Is the fear of war enough to drive us to action? Trump has argued, with good reason, that his leadership can prevent World War III. I believe that to be true. However, we shouldn’t allow our decisions to be driven purely by the fear of what might happen under Kamala Harris. Instead, we must be motivated by what we know works: a return to policies of strength, stability, and faith-led leadership. The world needs America at its best—rooted in principles, guided by God, and strong enough to stand up to evil when necessary. Biden’s failures have opened the door to conflict, but Trump showed that peace through strength is possible. If we allow our future to be dictated solely by fear of war, we lose sight of what made Trump’s presidency successful: not just avoiding conflict, but building a lasting peace based on American values. Our challenge now is to focus not only on preventing World War III but on advancing the cause of peace, just as Trump did in his first term. We must prioritize policies that protect American interests while showing moral clarity on the world stage. Electing Trump again isn’t just about avoiding war—it’s about restoring the leadership that brings peace. In the end, it’s not just about whether Trump wins or loses. It’s about how we, as a nation, uphold the values of strength and faith in our leaders. If we do that, we can avoid not just a global conflict, but the moral decay that comes with weak leadership. We are called to be wise stewards of our nation’s power and purpose, and Trump has proven he can lead in that regard. Let’s support him not out of fear, but out of faith in what we can achieve with the right leadership.

In 1947, a shepherd boy named Muhammed edh-Dhib stumbled upon an extraordinary discovery near the Dead Sea in Israel: ancient scrolls preserved for over two millennia. These manuscripts, now known as the Dead Sea Scrolls, were hidden in the caves of Qumran and have since been recognized as one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century. Among the more than 900 documents recovered, over a third are copies of the Old Testament books, including Genesis, Exodus, Psalms, and an almost complete copy of Isaiah—known as the Great Isaiah Scroll. These ancient texts, dating back as far as 300 BC, provide remarkable evidence of the Bible’s reliability. But what does this discovery mean for Christians today? How do the Dead Sea Scrolls speak to the reliability of the Bible and its message for the modern world? Are the Scriptures Reliable? One of the most common challenges skeptics raise against Christianity is whether the Bible we have today is trustworthy. "Hasn't it been changed over time?" some might ask. "How do we know the Bible we read today reflects what was originally written thousands of years ago?" The discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls provides a profound answer to these questions. When compared to manuscripts that were previously the oldest known Hebrew texts of the Old Testament—dating to around AD 1000—the Dead Sea Scrolls are over 1,000 years older. Yet, despite this immense gap in time, the differences between the texts are minimal. Most variations are as minor as differences in spelling or punctuation and do not change the meaning or message of the text. This remarkable consistency is a testament to the faithfulness with which the Hebrew scribes copied the Scriptures over the centuries. As the apostle Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 3:16, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.” The Dead Sea Scrolls confirm that the Scripture we rely on today has been faithfully preserved, just as God intended. Can We Trust the Old Testament? Many people, even Christians, sometimes question the historical accuracy of the Old Testament. Events like the Creation, the Fall, and the global Flood are often dismissed as myth or allegory. But the Dead Sea Scrolls affirm that these accounts have been carefully transmitted through the ages and reflect the original writings. Jesus Himself relied on the Old Testament in His teachings. When discussing marriage, Jesus referenced the creation account of Adam and Eve in Genesis, saying, “Haven’t you read that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female’?” (Matthew 19:4-5). Jesus treated Genesis as authoritative, and the accuracy of its transmission, confirmed by the Dead Sea Scrolls, strengthens our confidence in its truth. Further, the apostle Paul draws heavily on Genesis when explaining the foundation of sin and redemption. In Romans 5:12, he writes, “Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned.” Without a reliable Genesis account, Paul’s comparison between Adam’s disobedience and Christ’s obedience would lose its impact. But because Genesis has been faithfully preserved, we can be confident in its foundational role in understanding God’s plan for salvation. What Does This Mean for You? So, what does this discovery mean for your faith today? The Dead Sea Scrolls are not just an archaeological treasure—they are a powerful affirmation of God’s faithfulness in preserving His Word. In a world where truth is constantly questioned, these ancient manuscripts stand as a testimony to the enduring reliability of Scripture. But more than confirming the Bible’s accuracy, the Dead Sea Scrolls point us to the trustworthiness of God Himself. If God has been faithful in preserving His Word through millennia, how much more can we trust Him to be faithful in every aspect of our lives? As the writer of Hebrews reminds us, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). Just as God has preserved His Word throughout history, He remains unchanging and trustworthy in His promises to us today. How Should We Respond? The discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls should prompt us to ask some important questions: - If we can trust the Bible’s transmission, what does that mean for how we live in response to its teachings? - Are we grounding our faith in the whole of Scripture, even the challenging parts like Genesis? - If Jesus and the apostles affirmed the authority and accuracy of the Old Testament, shouldn’t we do the same? The Dead Sea Scrolls challenge us to take God’s Word seriously. If these texts, hidden in clay jars for over 2,000 years, have been preserved with such care, then surely the message they contain is vital. The Scriptures tell us about the creation of the world, the fall of humanity, and God’s unfolding plan of redemption through Jesus Christ. The Bible is not just a historical document—it is God’s living Word, speaking to us today. A Call to Trust and Obey The Dead Sea Scrolls remind us that God has been faithful in preserving His Word, and because of that, we can trust every word of Scripture. As believers, we are called to not only trust the Bible but to live by its teachings. James 1:22 encourages us, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” The accuracy of the Scriptures—from Genesis to Revelation—gives us confidence that the Bible is not just a book from the past, but the living Word of God, relevant for every generation. Will you trust in the unshakable Word of God and let it guide your life today? The discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls stands as a reminder: God’s Word endures, and so does His faithfulness. Will you believe it, and will you live it? Scriptures Referenced: - 2 Timothy 3:16 - Matthew 19:4-5 - Romans 5:12 - Hebrews 13:8 - James 1:22 Let this remarkable discovery encourage you to trust God’s Word more deeply and apply it in every area of your life.

For many Christians today, there’s a growing tendency to sideline the Old Testament, particularly Genesis, in favor of focusing on the New Testament. The argument often sounds something like this: “Jesus didn’t talk much about the details of creation, so why should we? Isn’t Genesis just a bunch of mythological stories?” But this line of reasoning misses the profound connection between the Old and New Testaments—a connection that is foundational to our faith. Does the New Testament’s lack of detailed explanations about Genesis mean those early chapters of the Bible are less important for Christians? Or could the very fact that they aren’t discussed in great detail actually be a powerful testimony to how central Genesis was to Jesus, the apostles, and the early church? Why Would Jesus Need to Explain Genesis? When Jesus walked the earth, He preached primarily to Jewish audiences—people who already believed in the Old Testament as an authoritative record of history. When debating religious leaders, Jesus often referenced Genesis, assuming His audience’s agreement on its authority. For instance, in Matthew 19:4-6, Jesus pointed to the creation of Adam and Eve when teaching about marriage: "Haven’t you read," he replied, "that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” (Matthew 19:4-6) Jesus didn’t need to explain or defend the historical accuracy of Genesis—His audience already accepted it. His use of Genesis in such a straightforward manner confirms its foundational role. The absence of long explanations about the creation account or Adam and Eve’s fall is not evidence of its unimportance; rather, it shows that these were accepted truths for His listeners. Did the Apostles Ignore Genesis? Some argue that since the apostles didn’t often delve into the specifics of Genesis, perhaps it wasn’t critical to the Christian message. But a closer look reveals something different. The apostles frequently referenced Genesis to make key theological points, assuming their readers would understand the significance. Consider Paul’s comparison between Adam and Jesus in Romans 5:12-21. Paul uses the story of Adam’s sin as a framework for understanding Jesus’ redemptive work: "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned … so also through the obedience of one man the many will be made righteous." (Romans 5:12, 19) If we dismiss the historical reality of Adam, Paul’s argument collapses. The contrast between Adam’s disobedience and Jesus’ obedience is essential to understanding the gospel. Without Genesis, we miss the very foundation of why humanity needs salvation in the first place. What About Evangelizing to Gentiles? When Paul preached to Gentiles, did he avoid using Genesis because they lacked Jewish knowledge? Not at all. When addressing the philosophers at the Areopagus in Acts 17, Paul begins his message by referring to God as the Creator of the world: "The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands." (Acts 17:24) He then roots human history in a single origin, stating: “From one man he made all the nations” (Acts 17:26). Even when speaking to a non-Jewish audience, Paul draws on Genesis as the foundation for his explanation of who God is and why humans need redemption. Genesis is not just for Jewish audiences—it is the story of all humanity. It reveals the origins of the world, the fall of humankind, and God’s plan for redemption, all of which are necessary to grasp the full message of the gospel. A Missing Genesis Means a Missing Gospel The New Testament is clear: Jesus and the apostles believed in the historical truth of Genesis. They didn’t need to explain it in detail because it was already a foundational part of the Jewish faith. Yet, whenever they talked about sin, salvation, or God’s plan for humanity, they referenced Genesis as a key part of that story. Consider Jesus’ teaching on His second coming in Matthew 24:37-39: "As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away." Jesus points back to the flood, treating it as a historical event that helps His followers understand what His return will be like. If the flood were a myth, this comparison would make little sense. But because it was a real event, Jesus uses it to illustrate the suddenness and seriousness of His return. The Full Picture of Scripture The entire Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, is God’s revelation of Himself to humanity. When Paul wrote to Timothy, he affirmed the importance of all Scripture, including the Old Testament: "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." (2 Timothy 3:16) To neglect Genesis is to neglect the very beginning of God’s story—the story that Jesus came to fulfill. Genesis reveals who God is as Creator, the nature of sin, and the need for a Savior. Without it, the gospel becomes detached from its historical and theological foundation. Why Should We Believe Genesis Today? Some Christians today argue that Genesis is merely symbolic or mythological. But if we believe in the authority of Jesus and the apostles, we cannot dismiss Genesis. They treated it as historical truth, and so should we. How can we understand the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice without understanding the fall of Adam? How can we grasp the full meaning of redemption without knowing how sin entered the world in the first place? If Genesis isn’t reliable, how can we trust the rest of Scripture? What the New Testament Doesn't Say Speaks Volumes The New Testament’s silence on many of the details of Genesis isn’t a sign of its unimportance—it’s a testament to how universally accepted it was among Jesus and the early believers. It was foundational to their understanding of God’s work in the world and His plan for redemption. If Genesis was good enough for Jesus and the apostles, it should be good enough for us. Instead of dismissing it, we should treasure it as the beginning of God’s beautiful story of salvation. From the first chapter of Genesis to the final chapter of Revelation, the Bible reveals one cohesive narrative that points to Jesus, our Creator and Redeemer. Are you willing to dive into the full story of Scripture, starting with Genesis? The truth is there, waiting to be unlocked. Scriptures Referenced: Matthew 19:4-6 Romans 5:12-19 Acts 17:24-26 Matthew 24:37-39 2 Timothy 3:16

By Robert Anthony September 20th 2024 Jesus began the whole of His ministry with the words, “The Government of heaven is at hand!”  Of course, in the Bible it is written, “The Kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 4:17) but a kingdom in Jesus' time was most certainly their form of government.   A kingdom is quite simply a form of government.  When Jesus spoke those words, “The Kingdom is at hand” everyone among Israel knew exactly what He was saying, “This oppressive government  that has rule over you, the Romans, has an expiration date, the government  God has promised you from the beginning... is at hand !”   Something over time has done a tremendous job relegating the written word of God into a mere religious book stealing from it the honor and awe it is due.  There is no ancient book on earth that chronicles our history, the earth before the flood, the truth of creation and generally the story of God with His children better than The Holy Bible - in fact no ancient book even comes close!  And yet the written word of God is so much more than a History Book!   Not to minimize the spiritual nature of the Word of God, not to minimize the eternal overtones and undertones throughout… but consider who the written word of God was written by and to whom it was originally written for... "A Family"!   There is no book on earth like it!   Moses wrote those first five books (what the Jews today commonly refer to as their Torah, torah is Hebrew, of course means, The Instruction ) for his own family – that generation of the twelve sons of Jacob who was about to receive their promised land.  One could say that the Bible is one families story kept throughout generations! Amazing thought, right!? But lets extract religion out of this story even more!  What do you call a document given to a people giving instruction for how to govern and land and a nation??? Perhaps, “A CONSTITUTION”!? Seems clear to me that God gave this family, who would become a nation, their own constitution just before leading them into what would be their eternal homeland. He gave them this constitution in preparation for how to govern their new nation. God said, “Keep this word, this law, this constitution and you will remain FOREVER in this land.  But break this constitution and I will remove you, and scatter you to the nations!” (Deuteronomy 28)   Then came the Son of God. Jesus showed up as a type and shadow of Moses but so much more!  He came to minister to His family and to multiply Greatly His family.  Jesus promised to deliver them (back) their Promised Land, saying, “The Government of God (over this land) is at hand.”  Yes, Absolutely it would have been assumed by ALL  of His audience that Jesus was referring to the Promised Land - He was very direct and obvious in teaching that the intended government of God would soon be returning to the land! But was Jesus really that much like Moses? Did Jesus go atop a mountain and receive a New Set of Laws, or a New Constitution to Israel!?  Well, actually, in a way, He did! Here are some of the things Jesus did just like Moses:   1. Jesus is atop a mountain with God – Matthew 17.  2. Jesus gives them New Laws – John 13:34.  3. Jesus takes them into the wilderness to teach the people God’s ways – Luke 4:42+  4. Jesus gives them a structure and order for leadership – Mark 10:41-45  5. Jesus Promises to them rule over the Promised Land – Matthew 24:15. 6.  Here is Jesus reconfirming the covenant made unto the fathers and that law given to Moses – Matthew 5:17-20. 7. Here is Jesus promising, like Moses, that this world will end – Luke 21.   So the written word of God is a book of history, a spiritual guide and blessing, a book of wisdom and education but to all who would believe, it is also Our Constitution !   And Jesus gave us His Constitution just like Moses . Starting from the very beginning of His ministry: “The Government of God is at hand” and then very early in His ministry, He brought them out into the wilderness, fed them bread MIRACULOUSLY, just like Moses (remember the manna) and gave them His law – we call it to this day, “ The Beatitudes ” (Matthew 5-7). Then He went atop a mountain and revealed God to a chosen three of His disciples.   It can be said while the Old Testament was the Constitution for the Old Covenant, the New Testament is the Constitution for the New Covenant. Does the word,  law  still bother you?  I will admit throughout my youth I had trouble with this word, Law .  Hahaha.  But seriously.  I was rather wild, hurting and unruly in many ways.  Sitting down a younger version of Robert Anthony to teach me a set of laws would have felt confining, unfair and even dictatorial!  However.... If someone had explained to me these things better, with more love and patience, with more understanding and truth... I like to think I would have listened!   Something to consider, the “Ten Commandments” literally translates from Hebrew in English, “THE WORD  OF GOD ”!!!  The Hebrew word “Dabar” is translated here, “Commandments” and they are commandments in a way, but they are so much more!  Think about this, when Jesus came to the earth, John wrote, “The Word of God dwelt among us, The Word of God became Flesh!”  But that same word is, “Dabar” in Hebrew.  So it could be written, “The 10 Commandments became Flesh and Dwelt Among us” and that would be true!!   How amazing is that! Our society and culture (perhaps thanks to the 60’s and 70’s) hates rules – you can debate me but on a whole (especially the young) people despise instruction, rules, corrections, laws, etc.  It is rather unique to meet anyone in today’s America who love law and order.  But what if it was presented better?  What Biblical truths were presented with less crushing and dominance and moreso with love, acceptance, forgiveness, patience, mercy and even, kindness… and LOVE!  Maybe it would be more palatable? And maybe people would realize it is God actually, loving us!   But in a way that’s exactly what Jesus did – He magnified the love of God, injecting His love into heaven’s message to the earth!!  How often did He reteach the laws of Moses!?  How often did He teach them rules, laws and order?  How often did the Pharisees try to catch Him breaking their law?  How often was the debate over the laws of God with Jesus!?  Even when He was condemned to die on the cross, the argument by Pilate, “I find no fault in this man” – Pilate testified, “He broke no laws!” Even His debate with satan was over law and order.   We as a society and culture tend to despise law and order because it has been used against us, with dominance and brutality, fear and condemnation rather than in truth, with love and mercy: God gave us His law, His commandments, His WORD – He gave us His Truth TO LOVE US !! Not to control, confine, dominate or crush us into submission.   God is telling us over and again, “I love you.  I want to bless you.  I want to bring you into a land of promise, into a life of promise.  I have plans for you, good plans, plans you know not of!  Trust me.  You can not get to the blessing by yourselves.  You have to go along with my ways.  I will teach you how to get Victory!  And you will need to learn how to do this….”   Jesus said, “I have come that you might have life and that you might live it more abundantly!” (John 10:10)  Jesus said, “For I have given to them the words which You have given Me; and they have received them,  and have known surely that I came forth from You; and they have believed that You sent Me.” (John 17:8).  This Word, this Constitution from God, was given to us from Jesus that we might have ABUNDANT LIFE!!!  And then, without it, rejecting it, denying the truth, denying the way of abundance and love – How are we to find Life!? The Kingdom of God is a government.  When Jesus returns, He is returning as a King, a ruler, an authority over a land and over the whole of the land!  He is returning to rule the earth in righteousness, justice, prosperity, blessing and love!  And we have His kingdom now !  “The kingdom of God is within you!” He told us (Luke 17:21).  And He has given to us His constitution for His coming government.  And we can live this kingdom now!   Our Constitution from God has been mistaught, misused, abused and manipulated by evil men since the day it was written!  And it will continue to be warred against, even until the last day.  But, children of God, remember, this is the Word, the only Constitution that Sets Us Free!!   We can trust His Constitution.  We can trust Him.  He will finish what He started.  He will bring us to the Victory just like He promised.  He restored Israel after 2,000 years!  Every single thing He continues to promise, He performs!  We can trust Him.  And we can love one another.   The Best is yet to Come.   May God’s bottomless and unending love be received by us all… Amen!?   Greatest brotherly love and affection, With anticipation and expectation for the day! -Robert

by Robert Anthony September 20th 2024 Two assassination attempts now!? How many proceedings against him since 2015? A constant attack against him, his family, his character, his business, God only knows how they were undermining his Presidency while he was in the White House!? AND! Two assassination attempts, SURVIVED!? This President Trump is truly an amazing man. If we, at American Revival Press, haven't been clear enough yet: Let this article act as our unequivocal endorsement for electing President Donald J Trump to the White House this November, 2024! President Trump will: care about America first and then try and save the world, he will close down our borders and work to overhaul our broken immigration system, he will bring an untold number of jobs back to our nation that have been shipped away, he will continue to force Europe to pay their share towards NATO, he is our best shot at ending the war in Ukraine, with his leadership peace could very well return to the Middle East, and yet he will not betray Israel! President Trump will: unleash the power and economic prosperity of our oil and natural gas energy deposits (probably returning us to a net-exporter of energy!), he will return to many of his policies giving tax breaks for "opportunity zones" throughout the cities of America, he will labor to get China and Chinese spy operations out from within our continental US, he will work with law enforcement to make sure our nation is safe again, he will deport every illegal immigrate who is only going to plague our nation for generations to come and yet, he will bless the various minority groups living throughout our nation! He will: rebuke our colleges and universities for their woke agenda which, as a social experiment, has nothing to do with education, he will push back all the radical LGBTQ agenda's without our federal school system, warring against our most innocent and precious children, he will continue to support Pro-Life legislation and fight for the pre-born, he will work to make our military proud again but not LGBTQ proud, proud of being a soldier, serving our great nation! President Trump will shut down many of the big government institutions that have actually been a drain and burden on the American people for decades, if not generations! He will continue to fight for states-rights, just as the constitution afforded them. He will go after the enemies of America (often elected officials) who during Covid broke laws, trampled the constitution and performed all sorts of horrors against their own citizens! He will find the criminals who stole the 2020 election from the American people and he will labor to make our election system free and fair. In fact, he will be the first US President to make sure we have a sound and secure election system, saving our voting Republic for generations to come!! We know President Trump will fulfill these promises he has made because the last time he was elected, he fulfilled the promises that he had made to us while on the campaign trail. He has more than proven himself to be a man of his word, even willing to die for what he believes in! It has never been easier for me to endorse a candidate since I have been old enough to vote. This man doesn't have to be perfect to receive my endorsement but his love for the nation and his policies make him just about perfect to me!! I won't even bother to remind us all what a vote against President Trump means to the nation. It's too hard to imagine what would become of us should the American people lose this election and the White House is stolen from us again. What is most frightening about the other candidate taking the White House is that we simply have no idea what she and her party will do with the power!? Did any of us imagine what they would do with our country over the past nearly four years!? Should they win, they will be emboldened to stamp out the voices of reason and truth. They will be eager to silence all their enemies and any political adversary daring to speak out against them, perhaps worse. They will continue to bankrupt our treasury and our US Dollar could actually be replaced by another global currency!? Should the other side win, we are going to witness the most frightening social experiments ever recorded in history perpetuated upon the human race. And they will take their radical ideas into the schools and into the families to war against our most vulnerable, our children. They will make after-birth abortion commonplace. They will weaken our military with their ridiculous DEI and Work agendas, al the while starting WW3. I dont want to continue with the dystopian vision that this Democrat Party in 2024 wants to fulfill. It's basically the worst parts of the Bible's prophesies about the end of the world. Thank you President Trump for all that you are doing for your family and for us, the American People! Your wife, your children, and your children's children must be so proud of you! And we are too! I pray you get tremendous rewards for all that you have suffered these past 9 years. I pray that you get rewarded not only in eternity but now and in this time! I pray that God surrounds you with the best people, win or lose. If we win you will need the most award winning cabinet and staff ever since there was a country. Should you/we lose, you will need to find the strength to lead the Republican party thru some of the very worst times it will ever, or has ever gone thru. I pray God gives you wisdom and strength. I pray He continues to protect you. The nation is behind you Sir. These elites who have grabbed so much of the power centers of America: the Media, Wall Street, Big Pharma, our Universities, Washington DC, they only represent a small fraction of the nation. You truly have the numbers. I pray the Lord does not allow them to steal this election from us. I pray that many of the state governments decide to shore up this election and in a hurry. I pray God would arrest the hearts and minds of so many throughout the Republican party who are endorsing the other side!? It's an assault and betrayal of the American people, perhaps like we have never seen before!? If we win it will be a miracle. Perhaps the biggest miracle since George Washington and friends founding of America! You enabled them to defeat The British Empire! Surely you can do this small miracle and keep them from stealing the nation from us again. "Save our nation, Lord. When you look upon us, look upon with mercy. When you see all that we have done so terribly, eve against your own name, remember those of us who love you and still want to fight to save this nation! Save us, Lord. Not because we deserve it, but for Your names sake, save our nation." "Amen."

In today’s world, many Christians find themselves wrestling with the relevance of the Old Testament. Some argue that it’s outdated, filled with confusing laws, genealogies, and stories of ancient people that don’t seem applicable to modern life. Yet, when we dismiss the Old Testament, we miss out on a vital part of God’s message for humanity. The Old Testament isn't just a collection of ancient writings—it is the foundation of the Bible’s entire story of redemption. Jesus Himself valued and taught from these scriptures. So, the question we must ask ourselves is this: If the Old Testament was so important to Jesus, should it not be important to us too? Why Read the Old Testament? When we think of Jesus, we often picture Him teaching in parables, healing the sick, and preaching about love and forgiveness. But do we ever consider how much of His teaching was rooted in the Old Testament? In Luke 4:17-21, we see Jesus standing in the synagogue, reading from the scroll of Isaiah: "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor." (Isaiah 61:1-2) After reading, Jesus declared, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” Jesus saw His mission as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. If the Old Testament shaped how He understood His purpose, shouldn’t we be paying closer attention? Consider this: without the Old Testament, we wouldn’t fully grasp the significance of Christ’s sacrifice. In Romans 5:12-19, Paul contrasts Adam’s sin with Christ’s obedience. Adam’s disobedience brought sin into the world, but Christ’s sacrifice brings redemption. Without knowing the story of Adam’s fall (Genesis 3), we lose the context that highlights Jesus as the “second Adam,” the one who reverses the curse of sin. A Story of Redemption, From Beginning to End The Old Testament is far more than a historical account. It is the beginning of the story of God’s redemptive plan for humanity—a plan that finds its climax in the New Testament with the coming of Jesus. Genesis 3:15 provides the first hint of this plan: "I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel." This verse, known as the protoevangelium (the first gospel), points to a future deliverer who will defeat evil. As the story unfolds, we see God narrowing His focus from all of humanity to one man, Abraham, whose descendants would become a blessing to the entire world (Genesis 12:2-3). Through Abraham’s lineage came the nation of Israel, and ultimately, Jesus Christ. Without the Old Testament, we miss out on the grand narrative of God’s covenant with His people—a covenant that starts with promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and culminates in the coming of the Messiah. This overarching story connects the Old and New Testaments, making them inseparable. Jesus in the Old Testament When we dismiss the Old Testament, we fail to see how Jesus fulfills it. For instance, in Matthew 5:17, Jesus said, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” Jesus didn't discard the Old Testament; He completed it. The sacrificial system outlined in books like Leviticus might seem foreign or irrelevant to modern readers. However, the Old Testament sacrifices were a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice Jesus would make. The writer of Hebrews draws this connection: “Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sins” (Hebrews 9:22). This system, which may seem distant to us today, prepared the way for Christ, the perfect and final sacrifice (Hebrews 10:14). Tough Questions and Misunderstandings One reason many people shy away from the Old Testament is the challenging nature of some of its passages. Stories like the flood in Genesis or the conquest of Canaan in Joshua raise difficult questions. How do we reconcile the God of love with what some see as harsh judgment? It’s crucial to remember that God’s actions in the Old Testament are not arbitrary acts of violence; they are part of His larger plan of justice and redemption. In Genesis 6:5, God sees the great wickedness of humanity, noting that “every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time.” His decision to send the flood was not out of cruelty, but out of the necessity to cleanse a corrupted world and begin anew. Similarly, God’s command to drive the Canaanites out of the Promised Land wasn’t senseless violence but a way to protect Israel from the moral depravity of the Canaanite religion, which included practices like child sacrifice (Deuteronomy 12:31). The Israelites were meant to be a “light to the nations” (Isaiah 49:6), but to fulfill this calling, they had to remain separate from those who would lead them astray. These hard passages remind us of the seriousness of sin and the holiness of God. As difficult as they may be, they point to a God who is both just and merciful—a theme that continues in the New Testament through Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross. The Old Testament: A Lens for Understanding the New If we read the New Testament without the Old, we’re only getting half of the story. Take the story of Jesus' conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4. The tension between Jews and Samaritans doesn’t fully make sense unless we know the Old Testament background found in 2 Kings 17, which explains the historical enmity between the two groups. Similarly, when Jesus refers to Himself as the "Good Shepherd" (John 10:11), He is evoking imagery from the Old Testament, where God is often described as a shepherd (Psalm 23, Ezekiel 34). Understanding these references deepens our understanding of who Jesus is and what He came to do. Where would we be without the Old Testament? It provides the foundation for our faith, reveals the character of God, and points us to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises in Jesus. As 2 Timothy 3:16 reminds us, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” The "Scripture" Paul refers to includes the Old Testament. Rather than seeing it as an outdated or irrelevant text, we should approach the Old Testament as a treasure trove of wisdom, history, and prophecy that reveals God’s redemptive plan from the very beginning. Jesus Himself valued it, and so should we. So, the next time you open your Bible, don’t skip over the Old Testament. Dive into it with the expectation that God will reveal something new about Himself and His purpose for the world—because it matters more than you think. Scriptures Referenced: - Genesis 3:15 - Genesis 12:2-3 - Genesis 6:5 - Isaiah 61:1-2 - Romans 5:12-19 - Hebrews 9:22 - Deuteronomy 12:31 - Isaiah 49:6 - Matthew 5:17 - John 4 - John 10:11 - 2 Timothy 3:16