Tag Archives: ANE

Who Shall Believe Their Report?

Posted on September 4, 2018 by ehurst

We live in a fairly civilized world today. Most of humanity at least gives lip service to the idea of human rights. We put a lot of stock in education. There was a time in history when things like geometry … Continue reading →

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Teachings of Jesus — Matthew 22:1-14

Posted on August 25, 2018 by ehurst

There is little confusion about this parable. Jesus continues His condemnation of the Sanhedrin and Temple officials. He uses another parable to paint their dire situation. Many eastern rulers used the wedding day of the heir as a day of … Continue reading →

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The Sin of Census

Posted on August 8, 2018 by ehurst

Ref: 2 Samuel 24 — This came up in a Bible study today and a great many people fail to understand the full context. Recall that the Covenant of Moses was inherently tribal and feudal. God says that no one … Continue reading →

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Teachings of Jesus — Matthew 16:13-28

Posted on June 9, 2018 by ehurst

The underlying theme that ties this whole passage together is getting a proper image of Jesus inheriting the Kingdom of Heaven. It’s too easy to forget this all takes place in the context of Ancient Near Eastern (ANE) culture. A … Continue reading →

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We Need Ehud

Posted on May 22, 2018 by ehurst

If we disobey, we leave a door open for demonic presence in our lives. Obedience is the hedge of protection. You don’t have to pay attention to what follows — it’s kinda long — but I must write it. Read … Continue reading →

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The Blood Is Sacred

Posted on May 10, 2018 by ehurst

First, I refer you to a couple of references: Genesis 31:25-35 (emphasis on the last verse) and Christine’s post about feminine blood. Second, I remind you that a great deal of Moses’ Law pulled in existing ancient custom and belief. … Continue reading →

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A Toothless Lion’s Roar

Posted on May 3, 2018 by ehurst

Were you aware that megachurches were suffering the same political turmoil as the rest of America? From time to time I’m asked to comment on this or that big scandal. First and foremost: The first churches in the New Testament … Continue reading →

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Regret or Not?

Posted on March 20, 2018 by ehurst

Jay and I were discussing on the forum about the paths we take in our lives. I made the comment that I always felt driven by the Spirit of God from a very young age. I was surely confused about … Continue reading →

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Teachings of Jesus: Matthew 10:28-33

Posted on March 17, 2018 by ehurst

This is the ultimate otherworldly statement: This life is expendable; don’t cling to it. There is a life for each of us after this that no one can take from your Father. People love to nitpick over the precise meaning … Continue reading →

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Nebuchadnezzar Was a Good Guy

Posted on February 23, 2018 by ehurst

So why was it God depicted Nebuchadnezzar as the golden head of the statue in Daniel’s vision? Some things are obvious. The most popular answer from Western Christians is that Neb was simply fulfilling God’s plan. He had utility and … Continue reading →

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