1 THESSALONIANS 1:1–10 The Viral Texts project at Northeastern University in Boston examines how printed content in the 1800s spread through newspapers—the social media network of that day. If an article was reprinted 50 times or more, they considered it “viral” for the Industrial Age. A 19th-century news article about Jesus’ executions appeared in 110 publications, … [Read more…]
PHILIPPIANS 4:4–9 Marie Kondo’s book on decluttering and organising has sold two million copies worldwide. The book encourages people to eliminate unnecessary items by asking if they spark joy and, if not, to give them away. Paul encouraged Philippinian Christians to find joy in their relationship with Christ, urging them to pray about everything and let … [Read more…]
MATTHEW 5:43–48; JOHN 8:9–11 It appears paradoxical that Jesus taught both absolute grace and absolute ideals. Jesus emphasised the importance of being perfect like our heavenly Father (Matthew 5:48) and held that we should love God with all our heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37). Yet the same Jesus offered absolute grace to various individuals, including an adulteress, … [Read more…]
PHILIPPIANS 3:12–21 The Amazing Race is a reality TV competition where couples race through various modes to reach a designated finishing point in a foreign country, with the ultimate prize being a million dollars. The race involves various transportation methods to reach the finish line. Paul compared Christian life to a race, admitting he has not … [Read more…]
HEBREWS 12:28-13:3 A US doctor’s 2023 report highlighted the “loneliness epidemic” due to increasing isolation and disconnect. In 2018, the UK appointed a ‘Minister for Loneliness’, prompting questions about our response to this epidemic as followers of Christ. The author of Hebrews states the unshakeable kingdom of God and the significance of worshipping Him with reverence, highlighting … [Read more…]
NUMBERS 13:26–32; 14:20–24 Selwyn Hughes was a good example of wholehearted devotion to God. Selwyn lost his sons in a span of ten months. While John died due to alcoholism, David had a heart attack. David, a printer, dedicated his career to his father’s publications and became a friend (not just his son) after Selwyn lost his … [Read more…]
1 THESSALONIANS 5:16–18 Nigeria, despite its abundant energy resources, is grappling with a severe energy crisis due to factors like inadequate budgetary support, corruption, poor maintenance, deteriorating infrastructure, power generation issues, and macroeconomic instability. Some neighbourhoods can experience frequent power disruptions, lasting up to twenty-four hours and three times a week, causing inconvenience and preventing the use … [Read more…]
EPHESIANS 3:7–13 A friend invited me to a pro golf tournament, where I was surprised to receive gifts. I also gained access to a VIP tent, which offered free food and seating. I could not have gained entry to the hospitality tent on my own, though. The key was my friend; it was only through … [Read more…]
GENESIS 16:1–13 In an online group where we support and encourage one another, a friend commented, “I see you.” His remarks gave me a sense of calm and wellbeing after I had been concerned and worried. He loved me and “saw” me, with all of my hopes, concerns, challenges, and dreams. My friend’s encouragement evoked thoughts … [Read more…]
JOHN 3:16–21 Plato, a Greek philosopher, narrated a story about a shepherd who accidentally discovered a golden ring hidden deep in the earth. The ring, which allowed him to become invisible, was discovered due to an earthquake. Plato questioned whether people would resist wrongdoing if they did not have to worry about punishment and being caught. … [Read more…]
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