The Old Testament's poetic and wisdom books offer a unique perspective on the anticipated Messiah. These writings, including Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Job, and others, express God's people's hopes, struggles, and faith in songs and sayings. Through these creative expressions, Israel's longing for a coming righteous king and wise savior was woven into worship and daily... Continue Reading →
Parenting in an Online World
“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4, ESV) Parenting has always required patience, wisdom, and perseverance. It also requires discernment, presence, and a deep commitment to spiritual formation in the digital age. Today’s parents are not just raising children in a... Continue Reading →
The Story We Inherit
Joseph Eberley Martin, with his second wife, Grandma Fannie, Doodle Lula (Hatcher) Moffit, and Paul Green My grandfather, Walter Anderson Martin, recounted some of his life to my aunt Judy. It's a rich and personal account of many of his experiences. "My grandfather on my father's side was Joseph Eberley Martin, born November 10, 1852,... Continue Reading →
What Did He Just Say?
In high school, I spent almost a year raising money to travel to Nice, France. I sold oranges and grapefruits. I peddled crab feed tickets. I worked every angle I could. The city of Nice covered lodging, most meals, and local travel. All we had to pay for was airfare, lunch, and whatever extras we... Continue Reading →
Τετέλεσται
When Jesus spoke from the cross, "It is finished," he was not giving up or admitting defeat. In John's account, the word "tetelestai" carries something powerful, a permanent completion of everything Jesus came to accomplish.1 This was not a whisper of surrender but a loud, clear announcement: the job was done, fully, finally, and forever. In the ancient world,... Continue Reading →
Phillip W. Martin 