What if our modern theology of politics is far too simple—and dangerously wrong? The Bible doesn’t paint a picture where every ruler is handpicked by God in a neat, predictable way. Instead, it reveals a cosmic drama of spiritual powers, human leaders, and seats of authority that can be used for justice—or deeply abused. To…
For many of us, the prophets seem like weird people that are impossible to relate to. But when we look close, these strange people begin to look a little more human. For example, we could make mention that Isaiah had a wife who was a “prophetess.” The two of them both did the same kind…
For many of us, the prophets seem like weird people that are impossible to relate to. But when we look close, these strange people begin to look a little more human. Take Hosea for example. Imagine a prophet not only walking home to see his wife, but a prophet who also has three kids that…
For many of us, the prophets seem like weird people that are impossible to relate to. They come across almost as “other-worldly” at times and we struggle to imagine having their experiences. Because of this, we never expect to have their kind of experiences and we cut the Holy Spirit off from working in us…
Different parts of the church understand prophecy differently. For example, I was recently at a conference in which a speaker distinguished himself as a prophet, because he was a visionary thinker. But this is not what it biblically means to be a prophet. Modern enlightenment has broadened the scope and given too many people the…
To illustrate the need for the Holy Spirit to operate as an interpreter of the Bible, read through Mark 4:1-20 for yourself. Try reading the first 9 verses alone and see if you can figure out the parable without reading Jesus’ explanation (though if you know this story too well the answers will come flooding…
As we come to our Bibles, ready to read along with the Spirit, our devotional life should begin to change. It may not be quick and it may not always be easy or vibrant, but God will meet us there. I always find it surprising how many new details God can still disclose to me…
All the wisdom we need is found in Jesus, for Paul called Him “the power of God and the wisdom of God” (1 Cor 1:24). This statement is intriguing because it echoes back to another figure in the Old Testament who goes by the name of “Lady Wisdom”—who, as we will soon see, appears to…
Sometimes it even seems possible for the Holy Spirit to teach us things in the Bible that are spiritually correct while completely taken out of context. Take for example how many Christians were infected with the Jeremiah 29:11 bug in the early 2000’s. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord,…
With the launch of 1208-Bit *Nerd Church—our latest model of church—we decided to have some fun with the holidays. Since we nerds enjoy good cosplay, we decided to create what we call, Cos-o-ween. Since we were playing Smash Bros last night, we invited everyone to cosplay as their favorite Smash Bros character or just whoever they…
Jamin Bradley 