Characters

Over four hundred years have passed since Israel has heard the voice of a true prophet. Isaiah prophesies concerning John’s mission as the forerunner who will announce the Messiah. The last verses of Malachi concern the arrival of John the Baptist. When John begins his ministry, he closes the door of the Old Testament and opens the door to the New Testament

The name John name means “Jehovah has been gracious.” Indeed, as we study the life of the John, we find grace epitomizes his life.

The chronicle of Adam and Eve is not a legend. They existed as actual human beings. If they were mythical figures, Luke could not have traced Jesus’ genealogy back to Adam (Luke 3:38).

David does not compare himself with Goliath, but compares Goliath with God. Knowing the threat to be real and the danger eminent, David asks, “Is there not a cause?” (v. 29). While Saul focuses on the overwhelming circumstances, David’s focus is on God. This gargantuan blasphemer must be silenced (v. 36). Because David fights for His honor, God will make him victorious.

The “Star of David” is central to the national flag of Israel. Because David made Jerusalem his capital, it is known as The City of David, and is still Israel’s capital.In many ways, David personifies the nation of Israel.

Jesus cares about women—and he has not forgotten the elderly.
  The story of this faithful widow is found in Mark 12:38-44 and Luke 21:1-4.

When Paul came to Corinth from Athens, he discovered this dynamic husband and wife team. We can learn some great attributes from this couple to incorporate into our lives.

This unique woman is a study in steadfast resoluteness.
  Her story is found in Matthew 15:21-28 and Mark 7:24-30.

When we open the book of Job, we are transported into an ancient world.  However, it is one that reflects human fears, joys, hope and the deep questions of life today. Every human being who has ever suffered deeply can relate to Job, especially those who have felt they have suffered unjustly.

To “wrestle with the angel” has become a proverbial expression for wrestling with problems. People want God’s blessing, but refuse to ponder, grapple, and fight through to victory.