The Biblefaktor

  New Christians often turn to the book of John because it spells out so clearly the basics of the falth. Jesus proves who he is, diagnoses humanity's problems, and bluntly describes what is necessary for conversion. You will likely recognize familiar verses and phrases in this remarkable book (such as Jesus' "I am" sayings). John selected seven "signs" or miracles (five of which aren't reported elsewhere) and built a story around them. As you read John, note how the author weaves together his story and its meaning. It's best to read John in units. Don't just read a paragraph or a chapter. Follow the bold- face sectional headings and read a complete section, both the action and the commentary on it. John does not primarily relate events; he interprets those events. Look carefully for the audiences Jesus addresses. Is he talking to his disciples? To his opponents? To the large crowds? He treats each audience differently. PEOPLE YOU'LL MEET IN ...

How to Read Luke | Biblefaktor How to Read Luke Luke probably did not know Jesus personally. But as a dedicated convert in the early church, he accompanied the apostle Paul on missionary trips. In three of his letters, Paul refers to Luke with great affection. As he mentions in his introduction, Luke eventually saw the need to draw up a carefully researched account of the life of Christ. Many accounts of varying quality existed then, but Luke set out to interview eyewitnesses and compose a thoughtful summary. His book shows thoroughness and detail. It starts before Jesus’ birth and ends with his ascension into heaven. You should find Luke a very appealing book to read. Luke was a gifted writer, and the stories he recorded have won their place among the classics of literature: the Good Samaritan , the Lost Son , the Rich Man and Lazarus . If Mark is a Gospel of action, Luke is a Gospel of relationships. It contains very good charact...

“He looked up to heaven, and with a deep sigh said to him, ‘Ephphatha,’ which means, ‘Be opened.’” — Mark 7:34 Why this matters: Many of us feel shut—by fear, past hurt, or constant noise. Jesus’ Aramaic word Ephphatha speaks to closed ears, tied tongues, and guarded hearts today. 1) The Story in Brief (Mark 7:31–37) People bring Jesus a man who is deaf and can hardly speak. Jesus takes him aside, touches his ears and tongue, looks to heaven, and says, “Ephphatha.” Immediately, the man hears and speaks clearly. The crowd is astonished. 2) What “Be Opened” Means Hearing truth: Openness starts with listening—to God’s word, wise counsel, and even correction. Speaking life: When hearts open, speech follows—clear, gracious, courageous. Whole-person healing: Jesus opens more than ears; He restores identity, community, and calling. 3) How to Practice “Ephphatha” This Week Quiet ten minutes daily: Read Mark 7:31–37. Ask, “Lord, what’s closed in me?” Note one act...

Faith is more than just a belief—it is the foundation of a meaningful Christian life. The Bible reminds us in Hebrews 11:1 that, "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." This means that trusting God even when circumstances look impossible opens the door to miracles. Why Faith is Essential When you put your faith in God, you are acknowledging that His plans are better than your own. This trust allows Him to work in your life, even in situations that seem hopeless. How to Strengthen Your Faith Read the Bible daily ( Here’s a guide on reading the Book of Mark ). Pray and talk to God regularly. Surround yourself with believers who encourage and inspire you. Biblical Examples of Faith Abraham trusted God when he was called to leave his homeland ( Genesis 12 ). David had faith when he faced Goliath with just a sling and a stone ( 1 Samuel 17 ). You can read more about David’s inspiring journey in this post: David’s L...

About 90% of Mark’s content appears in the other Gospels , yet Mark is an ideal starting point for anyone new to Jesus. Its style—short, simple sentences without long speeches—makes it easy to read, like a fast-moving news report. Many believe Mark first served as a missionary book for people who knew very little about the new Christian faith. Except when citing Jesus’ own words, Mark directly quotes the Old Testament in only one place ( Mark 1:2–3 ). He also avoids detailed references to the Mosaic Law—very different from the other Gospels. These clues suggest a non-Jewish audience, likely Romans, who valued brevity, action, and clarity. How to Read Mark (It’s Simple!) Mark’s breezy style makes it as understandable as a newspaper. The book loosely follows the chronology of Jesus’ life , so it’s an excellent introduction. As you read, pause and reflect: Why did Mark choose these events? What did they mean to people in Jesus’ day? How do they speak to you righ...

David in the Bible is one of the most fascinating figures in Scripture — a shepherd boy who became king, a warrior who defeated giants, a poet whose psalms still comfort millions, and a man described as “after God’s own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14). His story, recorded in 1 Samuel , 2 Samuel , 1 Kings , and the Psalms , is a journey of faith, victory, failure, and redemption. 1. Humble Beginnings – The Shepherd of Bethlehem David was the youngest son of Jesse, from the tribe of Judah, living in Bethlehem (1 Samuel 16:1). While his older brothers served in Saul’s army, David tended sheep. In the quiet hills, he learned courage by defending his flock from lions and bears (1 Samuel 17:34–36) and developed a deep relationship with God, often worshiping with his harp. It was here that God shaped his heart long before giving him the throne. 2. Anointed but Not Yet Crowned When King Saul disobeyed God, the Lord sent the prophet Samuel to anoint a new king. Surprisingly, God chose D...

Anybody who has looked over an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) form knows what tax col- lectors like: neat, orderly rows of figures, with all expenses and income classified by type and source. Fittingly, the Gospel attributed to former tax collector Matthew reflects system- atic, ledger-sheet thinking. He doesn't tell Jesus'story chronologically; he groups facts topically. Matthew collects Jesus' sayings in five main places. First comes the famous Sermon on the Mount in chapters 5-7. Chapter 10 records Jesus' instructions to his disciples about their mission; chapter 13, a series of parables on the kingdom; chapter 18, Christ's words on the church as a community; and chapters 23-25, Jesus' thoughts on religious hypocrisy and his predictions of the future. Sandwiched in among these five great discourses you'll findconnected scenes of Jesus in action.  The skillful blending of Jesus' action and teaching has helped earn this Gospel an esteemed place in liter...

Biblefaktor -MALACHI God's voice dominates Malachi, the voice of a loving father pleading with his children. The people's response is given in the form of seven questions or complaints. The result is a kind of dialogue-almost an argument-which lets you see into the personal attitudes of God and the people he is speaking to.  As in most arguments, a variety of issues are raised, but they are all rooted in a few basic attitudes. As you read through Malachi, try to see what attitudes lay behind the questions, complaints, and problems of God's people. Also note what attitudes lay behind God's words and promises to them.

Biblical representation of Zachariah  Most people find Zechariah difficult to understand.Throughout the book you will find references to people and events that are hard to interpret.A commentary can be a great help, clarifying the meaning of these details. For historical background on Zechariah's times, read Ezra 1-6. Zechariah is mentioned by name in Ezra 5:1.  The book of Zechariah breaks into three parts.The first six chapters offer eight symbolic visions, which were meant to encourage the builders of the temple.They are not too difficult to understand if you take them one at a time and don't rush through them.Their main emphasis: God is at work again. He plans to live with his people in Jerusalem. He will protect them from their enemies, cleanse them from their sins, banish evil. He is making a new beginning for them.  Chapters 7-8 address the quality of life God wants his renewed people to enjoy. These words contain many encouraging promises to Israel.  The las...