What we learn from the Bible is that names often mean something, and often we are told the significance of names in the biblical stories. So, we are told that “Esau” was named because he was “red” and “hairy” (Genesis 25:25). His twin brother, “Jacob,” which means “supplanter” (Genesis 25:26), got his name because he … Continue reading What’s in a Name?

A tabula patronatus from Bocchorus (6 CE). Unfortunately, too often Christians think we have our own special, insider language, and we forget that the first century believers were simply using ordinary terms to describe their new faith. For example, the wider, cultural lens of patronage and honor offers an important insight into the key New Testament terms of “grace” … Continue reading Faith as a loyal response to God’s gift.