Elders are not mentioned directly in Paul’s sketch of the structure of the local church. From the profile sketch of elders/overseers that he gives in his letters to Timothy and Titus it appears that Paul places these functions under the chapter ‘management’. Who can be elders in the church and which tasks they fulfil are […]

In this study a definition for the concept of ‘Spiritual Gifts’ is formulated. What precedes this. According to the OLB, ‘Spiritual Gifts’ is the translation of the Greek word ‘charisma’, which is derived from: charizomai, which is derived from charis, which, in turn, is derived from chairo. In order to understand the concept of ‘charisma/spiritual […]

Before the spiritual gifts (usually called ‘the gifts of the Spirit’) can be discussed it is necessary, first of all, to give a definition of the concept of ‘spiritual gifts’. Looking for a definition of ‘gift of God’s grace’. A ‘spiritual gift’ is the translation of the Greek word ‘charisma’. According to the OLB ‘charisma’ […]

As a sequel to the study ‘Grace – definition’, in this study a number of Bible texts are interpreted, proceeding from the translation of ‘charis/grace’ by ‘kindness’, Luke 4:22   (Jesus in the synagogue at Nazareth.) All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious (charis/kindness) words that came from his lips. “Isn’t this […]

In this study an attempt is made to establish a definition for the concept of ‘grace’, because it is important to correctly understand what is meant by ‘grace’ in the Bible. What is a definition. A definition is: A description of the characteristics of a concept, so that it cannot be confused with another concept. […]

‘Talents’ and ‘gifts’ are usually also mentioned in literature and preaching about the subject ‘the gifts of the Spirit’. Encouragement is usually given to use one’s gifts and talents in church. Whether ‘talents’ or ‘gifts of the Spirit’ are then meant by ‘gifts’ is often not very clear. In order to prevent confusion and incorrect […]

It is remarkable that in both Hebrew and Greek only one word is used for ‘to beget’ and ‘to be born’. To beget also means to be born in both languages therefore. In Hebrew: In Hebrew this is the verb: Yalad. Depending on the root form used when conjugating verbs, ‘yalad’ is translated as (OLB […]

During their journey through the desert God provided the Israelites with daily food, in the form of manna. The complete text describing this is to be found in Exodus 16:2-31. The symbolism of the manna. When the Jews were wondering whether Jesus was the promised Messiah, they asked Him: What sign then will you give […]