By Dr. Mark Scott Jesus was a worker of wonders. He worked miracles for several reasons. He wanted to prove who he was (Mark 2:10). He wanted to demonstrate that the kingdom had come (Matthew 12:28). He wanted to show compassion (Mark 8:2). He wanted to reward faith (Matthew 15:28). He wanted to fulfill prophecy […]
By Dr. Mark Scott School boys used to say, “Beauty is only skin deep, but ugliness goes all the way to the bone.” When it is spiritual ugliness, it goes deeper still. The minor prophet Hosea experienced spiritual ugliness. Like many of God’s prophets, his life got intertwined with his prophecy. Last week’s lesson about […]
By Dr. Mark Scott We should always interpret the Bible in light of the genre used because that sets expectations for interpretation. If I say, “Roses are red and violets are blue,” then I am using the genre of poetry. The reader interprets appropriately, expecting to see things like figures of speech, rhyme, and parallelisms. […]
By Dr. Mark Scott Proverbs 13:12 says, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life” (English Standard Version). Who has not known the agony of waiting? Waiting seems like forever. But a laser focus on a strong goal helps us endure any delay. That is what Jacob found […]
By Dr. Mark Scott Generous gifts and humble deeds sharply contrast with shrunken hearts and hypocritical actions. Today’s lesson shows that contrast in neon lights. The antagonists in the Gospels (the Pharisees, who were actually greatly respected) contrast sharply with a humble widow who made a most generous gift at the temple. Having just come […]
