What is infantilization?
The term infantilization cannot be found directly in the Bible, but the concept can be explored in the light of Scripture. Infantilization is a relatively modern word. Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary dates its first known use to 1943. To infantilize a person is to make that person immature or keep him baby-like. In modern usage, infantilization…
What does the Bible say about punctuality?
Punctuality is the quality of being on time. We appreciate it when planes, trains, and buses are punctual because we don’t have to waste our time waiting for them. We also appreciate it when other people are punctual. Punctual people build trust with others because they are dependable. Punctuality is a way of showing respect…
Was Hitler a Christian?
Unfortunately, the provocative claim that Adolf Hitler was a Christian keeps making its rounds. The claim, which is really an accusation leveled at all Christians, is fueled entirely by those with an axe to grind against religion in general and Christianity in particular. Objective historical evidence and common sense both indicate that Hitler was not,…
What does the Bible say about keeping your vows / oaths?
There are about 30 biblical references to vows, most of which are from the Old Testament. The books of Leviticus and Numbers have several references to vows in relation to offerings and sacrifices. There were dire consequences for the Israelites who broke vows, especially vows to God. The story of Jephthah illustrates the foolishness of…
What does the Bible say about habits?
The Bible does not specifically speak of “habits” as such. However, much is said about the meaning of the word: “a thing done often, and hence, usually done easily; an act that is acquired and has become automatic.” We all have habits, whether good or bad. Even newborns may come into this world with the…
Do animals sin?
Animals, with all creation, are certainly affected by sin. But do animals themselves sin, or is sin a strictly human practice? According to the Bible, sin is a transgression of the law. It is rebellion against God in thought, word, or deed (1 John 3:4). Animals did not rebel against God; man did. When God…
What does the Bible say about busyness / being too busy?
In our supersonic postmodern society, known for its busyness and its increasing ability to deliver instantaneously, we find ourselves hurried more than our ancestors ever could have imagined. We have come a long way from the horse-and-buggy days, and because of that, our twenty-four hours a day seem more and more restrictive. We never feel…
What does the Bible say about obedience?
The Bible has much to say about obedience. In fact, obedience is an essential part of the Christian faith. Jesus Himself was “obedient unto death, even death on a cross” (Philippians 2:8). For Christians, the act of taking up our cross and following Christ (Matthew 16:24) means obedience. The Bible says that we show our…
What does the Bible say about fate / destiny?
This is a very complex issue, and we will start with what the Bible does not teach. Fate is usually thought of as a predetermined course of events beyond human control. A typical response to a belief in fate is resignation—if we can’t change destiny, then why even try? Whatever happens, happens, and we can’t…
Is there any special meaning/symbolism to owls in the Bible?
Various species of owls are mentioned in the Old Testament. Apart from references to owls as unclean birds, the Bible features owls figuratively to symbolize tormenting loneliness, desolation, mourning, and judgment. The Mosaic Law classifies owls and other birds of prey as unclean, meaning they were forbidden to be eaten as food by Israel: “These…