God-Fearers
What attracted gentiles to Judaism in the Ancient World?
Purple Dye & Snails: Lydia
Making purple dye required an outrageous number of snails.
Calling Jesus the Shepherd and Guardian of Our Souls
The term “guardian” could mean many things from project manager to accountant to bureaucrat to spy. How is Jesus our guardian?
Lord — Origins of the Words in English, Latin, Greek, and Hebrew
The origins of Lord are related to: “keeper of the bread” (English), “one who subdues” or “one who builds a house” (Latin), “father”? (Hebrew).
Temple Tax: Context
The Temple tax was voluntary, an expression of faith and belonging – not part of a domination system.
Domestic Violence as Idolatry
The ancient gods blamed humanity for their own failings and problems. If humanity didn’t soothe them, they were struck down. Abusers treat their victims the same way.
The Impact of the Title “King of the Jews” on Herod the Great & Caesar Augustus
Only gentiles called Jesus “King of the Jews.” The Herods and the Caesars claimed many titles for themselves, but they perpetually felt their power threatened.