It’s easy to latch onto a compelling interpretation of a biblical word, especially when it paints a vivid picture. Take ὑπηρέτης (hypēretēs) in 1 Corinthians 4:1. Some claim it means “under-rower,” evoking an image of apostles toiling in the belly of a Roman ship. It sounds profound, but it’s not exactly how the word is used in the... Continue Reading →
Who’s in Control? Stewardship in a Digital World
Certainly there was an Eden on this very unhappy earth. We all long for it, and we are constantly glimpsing it: our whole nature at its best and least corrupted, its gentlest and most humane, is still soaked with the sense of “exile.”1 ~ J. R. R. Tolkien We were not made for this world, at least... Continue Reading →
Building a Biblical Studies Library
A few years back, some dude named Jared and I had a conversation about what makes a solid biblical studies library. That this video, still holds up. If you want a good list of recommended commentaries, [here’s one]. Building a library is not just about collecting books. It is about finding the right tools to... Continue Reading →
The Lies We Tell Ourselves
Corrie ten Boom knew trust. Real trust. The kind that holds firm when everything is falling apart. She and her family risked everything to hide Jewish refugees from the Nazis, believing faith wasn’t just an idea but something lived. For that, she was thrown into a concentration camp. Surrounded by suffering, she held onto one... Continue Reading →
Slow Wisdom
Philosopher in Contemplation, By Rembrandt “The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him.” (Proverbs 18:17, ESV) It is easy to hear a story and take it at face value. The first version always sounds convincing. The details line up, the emotion is strong, and the whole thing... Continue Reading →
Phillip W. Martin 