Who was Matthew the tax collector? We know that this Jesus follower is the author of the Gospel of Matthew, but what specific details do we know about his life.

There are countless Bible verses about marriage and Bible verses about love — scriptures that can offer us guidance as we live out our lives as husbands and wives, or as we plan to prepare to eventually enter that phase of life.

What is a “worldview?” According to Merriam Webster, it’s “a comprehensive conception or apprehension of the world especially from a specific standpoint.” 

There are some numbers that Christians might notice in the Bible — numbers that appear repeatedly throughout scripture. Among these numbers is 40. 

What is freedom? The dictionary defines it as “the quality or state of being free” and “the absence of necessity, coercion, or constraint in choice or action.”

July 4 celebrations generally leave us thinking deeper about the concept of “freedom.” In America, true freedom means being able to believe what we wish, among other rights guaranteed to us in the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights. But the Bible’s definition, which focuses on freedom in Christ, is more specific and applies to all of humanity, as shown through countless verses about freedom.

Life is replete with amazing and difficult moments, alike, but when you find yourself crying out to God, there is a comforting place you can go: scripture.

Pause for a minute and imagine what the world would look like if we all routinely pondered all of the things we're thankful for. It is especially important for Christians to cultivate an attitude of gratitude and thankfulness throughout each and every day.

When we explore some of the phenomenal fathers in the Bible it's impossible to overlook Joseph, Jesus' earthly father. There are many lessons we can take away from what we know of Joseph's life, particularly his obedience to God when it came to the announcement of Jesus' birth.

Author Jeff Kinley believes the Bible lays out some fascinating circumstances that will unfold as humanity marches toward the biblical "end times." 

The Bible is filled with verses that provide guidance to fathers as they seek to offer encouragement, leadership and love to their families.

Below, you’ll find 17 Bible verses for Father’s Day that shed light on God’s divine plan for dads. Consider sharing these Bible verses for dads with your kids and families, and use them to encourage — and pray for — the fathers in your life.

Unemployment trends come and go, and while many people focus on the numbers and associated statistics, it’s easy to forget that there are individuals behind those metrics: People with responsibilities who desperately need prayers for work and prayers for employment.

With Father’s Day right around the corner, it’s important to explore central fathers in the Bible who inspire us with timeless lessons about how to behave — and not behave. The stories surrounding these men offer Bible verses about fatherhood that can inspire us all.

Prayer is an essential part of the Christian experience. And with the rise of technology comes the opportunity to seek out a different kind of prayer group — an online gathering of like-minded Christians who are willing to answer your online prayer request.

Fear is an understandable emotion in America right now, as we struggle in the midst of COVID-19, the tragic death of George Floyd, the protests that have followed and a plethora of other cultural issues.

Sometimes it can feel like the Internet is just a gateway to negativity. If you find yourself frustrated with what you see online, seeking out Christian content through technology is a great way to stay positive and keep your walk with Christ active in all parts of your life. These groups across social media and the web are great options to connect with other Christians for prayer and encouragement.

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America is facing a time of unrest, grief, anger, sadness, and fear — and as the nation grapples with these complex emotions, we are called back to Jesus' greatest commands: Love God and love others.

Anyone who has read the Book of Acts in the Bible knows the importance of the Pentecost Sunday story. But some people might not know all the details — or might still have some questions about what unfolded and what the Pentecost definition really means.

"Worship" is perhaps one of the most utilized words in Christian circles, but let's actually pause to consider what worship means.

"Sacrifice" is a word that comes to mind when we think about the truths and realities embedded in the gospel. From Romans 12:1 to Hebrews 9:28 there are a plethora of Bible verses about sacrifice that explain why Jesus died for our sins and how we should live out selfless love in our own lives.

"Miracles" are inexplicable events that cannot be explained through scientific means, and in the faith world many attribute these events to the Lord.

Galatians 2 is filled with a great deal of fascinating details and theology, but in this Galatians 2 commentary we're going to focus on just two verses: Galatians 2:20-21.

Lee Strobel was once an atheist journalist on a mission to disprove Christianity, but that journey led him on an unexpected path to embracing Jesus.

Are you looking for a way to support nurses and doctors working on the frontline of the coronavirus threat — or those who have been afflicted? Consider pausing to say healing prayers or consider uttering a nurse prayer for healing. 

There are powerful Bible verses for mothers that offer praise and guidance as they live out one of the most important roles imaginable. These scriptures can also be used as inspirational Bible verses for Mother's Day.

A pastor named Tim Barnett recently released a short video that takes aim at a popular atheist talking point about Christianity: that Christians can't truly hold to the notion that everything in existence has a creator.

Faith holds the power to totally renew our hearts and souls, so let's explore some powerful Bible verses about new beginnings — scriptures that can inspire us.

Allen Jackson, lead pastor at World Outreach Church — a 15,000-member church located in Nashville, Tennessee — recently recalled how an incredible miracle transformed his family's faith.

There are men and women in the Bible who are truly heroic. Some have physical strength, others have mental strength — and still other heroes in the Bible have God-ordained wisdom. So, this article dives into just a view of the Bible heroes worthy of exploration.

Sadness can sometimes feel overpowering in our lives, with various events and happenings throwing us off course and leaving us in need of encouragement. 

Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, California, is seeing “God work” amid the ongoing novel coronavirus crisis, revealing his belief that “people are listening” and finding eternal truth amid the ashes of chaos.

Good Friday is one of the most revered holidays in the Christian calendar, as it represents the day Jesus was crucified — an event described in detail in the gospels. 

One of the toughest things in life is realizing that the world doesn't always center around us and that we each have to take steps to be better people. For Christians, this means following God and seeking His heart.

One of the most difficult parts of human existence is coping with loss, terminal illness and other life difficulties. Famed evangelist Luis Palau knows this all too well.

In a world in which evil and suffering can sometimes feel totally overwhelming, how do we, as Christians, ground ourselves and continue to push forward and do good?

As a toddler, Wendi Lou Lee starred in one of the most unforgettable Christian and family-friendly television shows: “Little House on the Prairie.”

Fears continue to swirl over COVID-19, the disease known as the novel coronavirus, but as some allow worry and even panic to overtake them, it's important to keep hope alive.

The global concerns about the coronavirus could so touch human hearts that the pressure ignites a revival of the rest and security that comes through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

In all my years I have never seen the kind of panic related to the potential spread of an illness. The kind of panic and fear I observe regularly on the faces of the public almost rivals what I observed when I was in Manhattan after the Twin Towers were toppled and the Pentagon attacked on September 11th 2001!

Many of us likely find ourselves turning to prayer in our deepest, darkest moments — times when we need God's strength to carry on. 

There's a fair bit of worry and consternation surrounding COVID-19, the disease known as the novel coronavirus. And as the virus continues to make its way around the globe and new infections and deaths are reported, fears are only rising.

Galatians is a powerful epistle written by the Apostle Paul to the churches in Galatia. This Galatians summary will go through Galatians 1 to pinpoint the most transformative truths that can help us grow on our individual journeys with Christ.

Prayer is an essential piece of the Christian puzzle, as it helps sustain us, connect us with others' needs and, most importantly, build our relationship with the Almighty.

God's message to us is clear: set your mind on things above. Rather than obsessing over the here and now, we're called to focus our attention on Him.

If you or a loved one are struggling and in need of hope and inspiration, this Bible verse list can help. Even when life gets us down, we can turn to the scriptures to find inspirational and timeless truths that can help us face any and all uphill battles.

“Love” is a topic that is at the core of the Christian Gospel. John 3:16 (NIV) tells us that “for God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” God’s love for mankind is evident, and Christ’s call for believers to replicate that love is also at the core of living an authentically gospel-driven life.

Wisdom and knowledge are two of the most important elements a person can have, but both of these essentials are sometimes lost in translation in a modern culture that is so focused on the "self." We see the importance of both in Colossians 2.

Valentine’s Day isn’t directly mentioned in the Bible, but any Christian knows that the scriptures are, in their entirety, “the greatest love story ever told.” 

Tis' the season for love, and while we celebrate Valentine's Day, what better way to focus on the biblical command to love God and love others than to explore some powerful scriptures — and feature films — that help us live out those truths.

The Bible is filled with powerful stories that show us the true definition of love, but there are two stories in particular at the start of the biblical narrative that show us something else: what not to do when it comes to love.

Christian music stars Colton Dixon and Matthew West are both independently taking on an essential element of the faith: miracles.

Dixon’s new song — aptly titled “Miracles” — takes listeners into the importance of feeling God’s love in our lives, particularly when it comes to the miracles and God-ordained events we can experience in everyday happenings.

Keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus is essential as we navigate life's ups and downs, and that's exactly the focus of the Book of Colossians, a New Testament text written by the Apostle Paul. 

As we come to a close in this series on the Book of James, there is much wisdom to consider in James Chapter 5.

Christians are called to follow God and not the world — to adhere to the Almighty's standards rather than culture's whims.

What we say matters. And the Bible makes it blatantly clear that we can cause a lot of trouble when we open our mouths and fail to think about what's coming out. This is the primary lesson we learn in James Chapter 3 and, in particular, James 3:1-12.

The Bible is filled with pro-life Bible verses that speak about the power of God's love for His creation. With this in mind, the scriptures overwhelmingly offer up Bible verses against abortion and in defense of the unborn.

What comes out of our mouths matters — deeply. As Christians, what we say and do can have a major impact not only on other people, but also on the trajectory of our own lives.

Is believing in God enough? The Bible makes it clear that spiritual salvation is dependent upon a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, not merely a belief in God.

As we honor Martin Luther King Jr. — the pastor, activist and civil rights icon who inspired millions —  it’s important to look back at his words of wisdom to glean timeless lessons that can continue to guide our personal relations and culture.

Are you looking for perseverance, strength — and wisdom? The Book of James has all that and more. 

The Book of James is filled with fulfilling advice and perspective, with James Chapter 2 offering essential lessons about favoritism, faith vs. works and more. Three of the most important take-aways in this chapter are found in James 2:1, James 2:14 and James 2:17.

It's often amazing to watch some of the gruffest, toughest people give their lives to Jesus — people from whom one would never expect to see open vulnerability. Yet, truth suddenly softens them.

It's no secret that culture is in a truly chaotic place, with confusion, infighting, anger and hatred all-too-often raging on social media and across the nation and world.

The Book of James is a relatively short, five-chapter book of the Bible, but despite it's brief length, this epistle is filled with essential spiritual advice and guidance. 

The Bible has a lot to say about the importance of watching how we speak to others, and the most pointed scripture on this issue is found in James 3.

With 2019 coming to a close and 2020 upon us, millions of Americans are sure to begin crafting resolutions, proclamations and pledges — promises to enact change in their lives in the new year.

As the world prepares to celebrate Jesus' birth, one author is inspiring us to look deeper and more introspectively at the Christmas story. 

Isaiah 7 is one of the most fascinating Old Testament chapters — and it's perhaps the one (alongside Isaiah 9) that gets the most attention during the Christmas season. Why, you ask?

Most of us are very familiar with the nativity story, but while we might know the general details, perhaps we’re not as well-versed with some of the more intricate details surrounding the birthplace of Jesus, the Magi (also known as the three wise men) and the significance of gold, frankincense and myrrh — the gifts given to Jesus.

The events surrounding Jesus' birth are fascinating, eye-opening and patently divine. Some of the most powerful elements of the story found in Matthew and Luke offer us some important insight.

The Bible is filled with many stories of people who have sought God, overcome trials and performed stunning acts for the Christian faith. 

One of the most compelling parts of the nativity narrative are the people whom God chose to include in the story.

These people, who directly received the most powerful news in human history, are some of the most well-known figures, especially when it comes to recounting the story of Jesus' birth at Christmas.

Many of us love to tell the Christmas story each year as we remember Jesus' arrival on Earth and his resulting ministry. But one of the most fascinating parts of the story is examining the key individuals involved and the lessons they can teach us.

The Christmas season is filled with joy, love, and the remembrance of Jesus’ birth. But while we know that Christ’s arrival is the true origin of Christmas, there are some important questions some might have about the real history of Christmas.

The Bible is no doubt filled with life-affirming content, with the scriptures guiding Christians in our faith walk, helping explain God's relationship to humanity and offering a guide for how we should live, love and interact with one another.

The Christmas story is one of the most well-known biblical accounts, with millions of people around the world celebrating the story of Jesus’ arrival to save humanity from sin. One of the most interesting elements is the role that angels in the Bible play in the nativity story. 

Most Americans are deeply familiar with the nativity — the traditional Christmas scene that captures the story of Jesus’ birth. It’s a display that typically shows the baby Christ surrounded by stable animals, Mary, Joseph, angels, shepherds and the three wise men. 

No one can run fast enough, jump high enough, sing well enough, or drop enough money into the collection bag to impress God. This is because every ability we have and everything we own comes from Him.

The Bible is filled with life-affirming information aimed at helping us  connect with God and live out our individual purposes. Ephesians 4 is one area of scripture, in particular, that helps guide us in what it means to truly live a Christ-centered life.

“Duck Dynasty” family members Jase and Missy Robertson are known for living faithfully. The couple — along with the rest of the Robertson clan — have been outspoken Christians who regularly speak out about faith, love and the value of others.

Are you in a leadership position? Or, perhaps you are looking for Bible verses about leadership qualities. Either way, one never knows when he or she could end up in charge or running something — and that's why it's essential to know the ins and outs of Bible verses on leadership.

I‘ve always been desperate to reach the lost and, because of that, I’m continually pleading with God to save them. Their fate weighs heavily on my heart as it should on the heart of every Christian.

Life can be both beautiful and difficult, with different seasons ushering in a variety of emotions, victories and struggles.

While there's plenty of insight in the Bible to guide us through the difficult times, there are also countless uplifting Bible verses that can help us reflect on inspiration and all we have to be grateful for.

Dr. Haywood Robinson performed hundreds of abortions before an encounter with Christianity totally transformed his perspective and catapulted him into pro-life advocacy.

For Christians, prayer is a powerful tool for making it through each and every day. From prayers of gratitude to requests for help, invocations to God allow us to ask Him to guide us and others through our struggles and victories. 

As Halloween approaches, chatter and debate about the spiritual world will certainly intensify. Ironically — but perhaps not too surprisingly — it’s a good time for Christians to focus not only on building up their own faith amid these discussions, but also on helping others understand what the Bible tells us about the spiritual realm.

In an increasingly chaotic and confused culture, many Christian parents are looking for ways to raise brave kids — children who put God first and who grow up to live biblically in a world that many times eschews the Lord and His word.

The aunt of a terminally-ill little boy is speaking out with gratitude as people around the U.S. continue to rally together to grant her nephew and family one final wish.

When life throws us difficult circumstances, we might find ourselves on the prowl for the best Bible verse that can help us understand, cope and carry on. It’s during these difficult moments that we seek Bible verses about sadness and Bible verses about grief that can help lift us up and out of our difficult circumstances. 

The New Testament is filled with information on what it means to be a Christ follower, with Jesus beautifully detailing and describing “the narrow path.” This path can be summarized as: embracing Jesus’ sacrifice for mankind, believing he died for our sins and living life for him.

Christianity in America is declining at a "rapid pace," according to startling new analysis from The Pew Research Center.

How you share your faith truly matters. The method, the tone, the context and the level of passion and authenticity all play a role in how the gospel is received. That’s why we’ve prepared some helpful Bible verses about sharing your faith and verses about sharing the gospel.

Prayer is an essential element of the Christian experience, but with the chaos of schedules it’s sometimes difficult to set up a good and solid routine that we can keep up with. 

One of the most popular parts of the gospel is Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, a portion of scripture that is found in Matthew 5-7. It’s a section of scripture in which Jesus covers many topics. We’ll offer a Sermon on the Mount summary to cover just some of the topics Christ went over in this robust part of the Bible. 

The concept of tithing money to one’s church has biblical roots. But even though there’s tithing in the Bible, there’s also a debate today over what church tithes should look like and how much people should give.

The Bible reminds us throughout the New and Old Testaments that truth is deeply important. But living out this reality can be difficult in a culture that treats truth as relative or fluid.

Faith in the workplace is an interesting topic that often doesn’t get the attention it deserves. As Christians, we’re called to live out Godly leadership no matter where we are, which is why it’s essential to consider religion in the workplace and how we can be a true Christian at work.

The Bible says a great deal about how we're called to treat others, but there's one theme that is often overlooked: treating individuals — especially when it comes to the disparity between the poor and rich — in an equitable way.

Should we "fear" God? Proverbs 9:10 (NIV) gives us some solid foundational truth worth pondering. The verse reads: 

Life can be both beautiful and — at moments — painful. Uncertainty can breed anxiety and unfortunate events will often birth worry.

But the Bible tells us there's hope.

The Bible makes it clear that God's standards matter, with scripture repeatedly telling us about the Lord's character and, in turn, how we should act if we want to reflect and live like our Creator.

We're living in an "anything goes" culture — one that encourages people to create and foster their own baseline of morality. While self-restraint and biblical values once took center stage, the current situation looks radically different.

Life can be both beautiful and painful. And when uncertainty hits, it’s not uncommon for fear and anxiety to take hold. That’s why we’ve put together a list of Bible scriptures on fear — Bible verses about fear and anxiety that will help you overcome whatever you face.

Culture embraces many cliches that encourage us to embark on journeys to find our personal destinies. From "follow your heart" to "be true to yourself" and "be who you want to be," there are plenty of feel-good slogans that some of us have come to embrace.

There's a profound struggle today among some Christians to properly balance truth and love. Perhaps you've faced this dynamic — the call to love and abide by God, while also being relational with those who reject biblical truth.

Football is without a doubt one of the most popular sports in America. And while much of the interest in the NFL centers on players’ talents and devotion, there’s been an uptick in intrigue surrounding players’ faith. 

As we continue our devotional series, I want to ask an important question: Where do your morals, values and ethics come from? This is an essential question, because, whether we realize it, each one of us has a defined moral and ethical framework — and many of our ideas come from what we choose to put into our hearts and minds.

Culture today is profoundly and deeply struggling with the concepts of "knowledge" and "truth." But while there is a multitude of confusion abounding, the Bible is pretty clear about where knowledge comes from, what it is, where we can obtain it — and why it truly matters.

The scriptures are filled with Bible stories about helping others, and these stories are meant to inspire us in our own journeys as we work to have a giving heart and be more like Jesus. One of the most fascinating proclamations from Christ is delivered in Acts 20.

How should we respond when unimaginable tragedy strikes, when everything around us seems to be imploding — or when life simply doesn't go as planned?

Social media is a great place to share scripture, which is why we’ve put together a list of some of the most popular Bible verses — famous Bible verses that you can share today.

Tenth Avenue North lead singer Mike Donehey knows a thing or two about having his plans, dreams and life goals interrupted. 

We often seek God when we’re facing our most difficult moments — challenges that force us to think deeper about eternal things. This might happen when we face financial crisis, illness or another life-altering scenario.

Hebrews 11 is a powerful chapter in the Bible that teaches Christians quite a bit about the importance of putting faith into action. The first verse opens with a powerful reminder of what faith truly is, with the chapter offering powerful lessons throughout. 

The most compelling evidence for the Christian faith is the profound change that unfolds in the lives of genuine adherents — the transformations that take people from sinful lifestyles to Christ-centered lives. The Bible is also filled with these stories, with Saul’s conversion standing as the most well-known of these pivot-point stories.

In a stunning show of faith and newfound devotion, 8,670 people made the life-altering decision to accept Jesus Christ and follow the gospel this weekend during Pastor Greg Laurie’s SoCal Harvest, an evangelistic crusade held at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, California. 

If you lead Bible studies, small groups, or Christian gatherings, you might be on the lookout for books and other points of guidance that can help you set the tone and content of your small group. And you might be looking for icebreakers for small groups to get conversation flowing.

One of the most profound proofs of God’s grace and mercy is the radical change people go through after accepting Christ. Stories of true life-change are sometimes so intense and seemingly unbelievable that it’s apparent only God could have sparked these peoples’ journeys.

The power of prayer is spoken about throughout the Bible, but while many of us know or have at least read verses about praying, it’s easy to sometimes de-emphasize the importance and power of invoking God. Whether we are grateful or struggling, power of prayer scriptures reveal to us the call we have as Christians to regularly communicate with the Lord.

Pastor Greg Laurie, founder of Harvest Crusade and Harvest America and pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, California, is issuing a challenge to Christians as he prepares to host another one of his famous evangelistic events.  

The Bible tells us to love our neighbors as ourselves, but what does this look like in practice? There are numerous verses in the Old and New Testaments that speak to the power of love, and implore human beings to love your neighbor as you love yourself.

If you’re a parent looking for spiritual guidance for your children, consider picking up some powerful devotions for kids. Kids devotions help guide children to learn more about the Bible and to also explore important truths about life.

Filmmakers Jon and Andy Erwin struck box office gold with their movie, “I Can Only Imagine,” a 2018 feature film about Mercy Me frontman Bart Millard’s life story.

What does it look like to live a Christ-centered life? The Bible spells out the importance of putting Jesus at the center of your life, with the scriptures revealing what it truly looks like when you fully allow Christ to transform you.

The Bible is “one of the most influential books in human history,” but what’s the deeper story? What’s in the Bible, and why is it there? What’s the real difference between the Old and New Testaments — and what about the other debated writings that didn’t make the cut?

As kids and young adults around America prepare to head back to school, it’s essential to keep in mind the importance of turning to God to ask Him to bless and guide their paths. That’s why we’ve put together a list of helpful back-to-school prayer options — invocations you can use throughout the year to ask God to bless your children’s lives.

Most people are familiar with Noah’s ark story, as it is one of the most discussed biblical accounts in history. The story of the great flood — found in Genesis 6-9 — explains that the catastrophe was brought about my mankind’s wickedness and violence. 

As kids across America are either back in school or preparing to get back into their daily educational routines, we wanted to offer up some inspirational Bible verses for kids — and some positive ways you can help your children keep God in mind throughout the day.

Life comes along with its share of ups and downs, challenges and victories, highs and lows. No matter what happens, we must push onward and move forward. Luckily, there are countless Bible verses about perseverance — scriptures that can inspire us even in our most difficult moments.

What’s the most compelling evidence for Christianity? Some might cite miracles or personal faith journeys, but apologist Sean McDowell believes that the disciples’ bravery is one of the factors that takes center stage when it comes to assessing biblical truth.

Summer offers a unique opportunity to spend more time outdoors, to be more active and find quiet moments of reflection. As the season kicks into high gear, consider how to get closer to God. With vacation time, increased physical activity and other elements at play, getting closer to God can be quite easy. 

What does it mean to be a good friend? The Bible talks quite a bit about friendship, but did you know that there’s also a cultural event known as the International Day of Friendship? 

Christian singers are known for their vocal power and for helping believers connect to God through music. But some of the most popular Christian singers are also speakers, authors and encouragers — individuals who often speak important gospel truths. Pure Flix Insider has interviewed some of these stars, and we’ve assembled some of their most powerful proclamations.

Author and TV host Bear Grylls is known for his popular shows “Man vs Wild” and “Running Wild with Bear Grylls” — and for his adventurous spirit. But he’s also a man of deep faith.

Miracle stories have long captivated the masses. Unexplained stories of healing and overcoming insurmountable odds give human beings hope amid difficulties. This is why Hollywood has often turned to miracle stories in movies and TV shows — themes that empower viewers and capture their attention. 

Dr. Georgia Purdom is a scientist and Christian with a PhD in molecular genetics from The Ohio State University. Well-educated in matters of both faith and science, she believes much of what’s observable in science aligns with the truths described in the Bible.

The Bible is filled with beautiful verses that discuss the fact that Jesus died for us, rose again and guaranteed us eternal life through his sacrifice. Bible verses about salvation explain the importance of embracing God’s love for us and believing in Jesus with our whole hearts.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott delivered a powerful message on Sunday night, speaking about the tragic accident 35 years ago that left him paralyzed and feeling hopeless. 

Anyone who watched “Unplanned” — the popular feature film about Abby Johnson’s transformation from a Planned Parenthood clinic director to one of the most well-known pro-life activists in America — saw the pivotal role a man named Shawn Carney played in Johnson’s life.

Archaeologists have reportedly uncovered the location of an Old Testament city connected to King David — an exciting development that lines up with the biblical narrative. 

The study of the end times — also known as “eschatology” — is a complex area of theological exploration. Due to the many scriptural elements surrounding eschatology, the second coming of Jesus and the signs of Jesus’ second coming are highly debated.

The battle over the separation of church and state continues to rage in the United States, but David Curry, CEO of Open Doors USA, wants American Christians to know what persecution is like in other areas of the globe — and it’s a pretty shocking paradigm.

Bryan Flanery knows what it’s like to be in despair. Flanery, who before his retirement served in the U.S. Army and deployed to Afghanistan, experienced the physical and emotional scars that often come with war — and those internal and external pains brought him to the brink of suicide.

Popular Christian singer Michael W. Smith recently shared how a “divine interruption” led him to a surprise conversation with an Uber driver who truly needed to hear the gospel. 

If there’s one thing that author and speaker Ben Courson wants struggling Christians to know it’s that they’re in good company.

It’s always inspiring to see celebrities turn their lives over to Jesus — a paradigm that sometimes seems all too rare when it comes to the world of fame and fortune. 

John 3:16 is without a doubt one of the most popular Bible verses in the New Testament. In this section of scripture, Jesus lays out God’s love for the world in sending Christ to die for the sins of humanity. But exactly what does John 3:16 mean? In order to understand the entirety of John 3:16 one must take a clearer look at the entirety of John 3.

No matter what you face in life, God is there to pick you up, guide your path and infuse your life with hope. There are countless Bible verses that can help us deal with traumatic events, with many scriptures offering guidance when it comes to how to get over trauma.

Actor Mark Wahlberg has long credited his deep faith with helping turn his life around. While millions know Wahlberg as an entertaining and beloved performer, his early years actually started out quite differently.

The meaning of John Chapter 1 is quite fascinating, as it encapsulates the importance of Jesus and establishes the fact that Christ has always been one with God. The bulk of the chapter, which is filled with beautiful proclamations about the core of the gospel, also speaks about John the Baptist.

Filmmaker Dallas Jenkins has broken records and boundaries with his new project, “The Chosen,” the first-ever multi-season TV series about Jesus’ life. This innovative project is also the biggest crowdfunding media project in world history, with more than 16,000 investors giving over $10 million.

If you’re looking for Bible verses for fathers — scriptures that will encourage and enrich the lives of the dads in your life — look no further. This article contains a list of Father’s Day Bible verses that can be used year-round to remind dads of their calling and to help encourage fathers to live out God’s plan for their lives.

Atheists tend to wage a number of common critiques against God and the Bible. Among the most frequent qualms is the question: “Well, if God created everything, then who created God?” It’s a curiosity that Bodie Hodge, an author, speaker and researcher for Answers in Genesis, is all too familiar with — and one to which he has an intriguing response.

Summer comes along with a slew of events. From swimming at the beach to family fun, there’s also another fixture: weddings. This spring, summer and fall are popular seasons for getting married. And if you’re planning to attend a wedding this year, there’s a good chance you’ll hear some Christian wedding vows.

The Bible is filled with information about how to be a good father. In fact, there are countless Bible verses about fathers, with God the Father serving as a prime example of what it truly means to live a successful life and to properly raise children.

Perhaps you’re looking for ways you can help inspire your husband. Maybe he’s facing an uphill battle. Or, you’re hoping God can help guide his role as a father or in your marriage. No matter why you’re turning to God, we have some suggestions for any wife who is praying for a husband.

Pastor Anthony Thompson faced the most unthinkable circumstance on June 17, 2015, when he learned that his wife, Myra, was one of the nine African American victims gunned down by a white shooter during a Bible study at Emanuel AME church in Charleston, South Carolina.

Graduating high school and college is a significant achievement — one that sends young people into totally new phases of life. With that in mind, there are many graduation Bible verses worth sharing. These Bible verses for graduates offer advice, guidance and reminders that can help graduates focus on what matters most: their faith and reliance in God.

Jesus tells us to “let our light shine before others” so that people can see our good works and, in turn, see the hand of God at work. But it’s sometimes easy to get so wrapped up in the world — or to be so turned off by what’s happening in the world — that we lose sight of what it means to be “salt and light” and to live out this spiritual mandate.

Evangelist and author Matt Brown is on a mission to help Christians find the balance between truth and love, encouraging people to consider how they should “walk and act and be like Jesus.”

Miles McPherson, pastor of The Rock Church in San Diego, California, was once an NFL player who used cocaine and partied — but an encounter with God early one morning sent his life on a totally different trajectory.

Olympic runner Ryan Hall has had a “crazy journey” filled with amazing highs and difficult lows — and now he’s sharing the backstory surrounding how he discovered true purpose and God’s goodness amid the ebbs and flows.

As the nation’s abortion battle heats up, faith leaders like Daniel Darling, a pastor and the vice president for communications of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, are on the front lines.

Pastor Greg Laurie, founder of Harvest Crusade and Harvest America and the pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, California, once had a “crazy, chaotic” childhood, but a chance encounter with the gospel set him on course to become one of the most transformative pastors of the modern era.

Saying grace before each meal is an incredible way to teach children about the importance of gratitude. In a world in which so many people go to bed hungry, the decision to say grace before each meal is one that can help transform kids’ understanding of the world around them.

Biblical Examples of Mothers to Inspire This Mother’s Day

Motherhood is one of the most essential roles in human history. As we honor moms, it’s important to remember that they fulfill a divine role when it comes to shaping children and teaching them about the holy spirit, the Bible and God’s work in our lives.

Casey Diaz was once a gang member and murderer who took pleasure in the violence and chaos that was inherent to his lifestyle — until an encounter with the Bible’s message of hope changed his life in the most profound ways imaginable.

Mothers serve one of the most essential roles in all of human culture — and this has been the case throughout human history. From Eve, humanity’s first mom, down the line, there are powerful examples of motherhood that should inspire us all.

We already showed you the stunning clip of thousands of Christians singing “How Great Is Our God” while assembled in New York City’s Times Square — but now there’s another video showing the crowd singing a powerful rendition of the popular hymn “Amazing Grace.”

As researchers and experts warn that America’s youth are part of “the first truly post-Christian generation,” author and apologist Sean McDowell has a powerful and encouraging message for parents who have fears about their kids’ futures.

Author and hip hop artist Jackie Hill Perry is on a mission to help equip the Christian church, while also encouraging people who are same-sex attracted. Perry released a new book last year that dives deep into her life experiences — and the Bible’s presentation of hope and truth.

Marriage is an incredible journey ordained by God. Keeping Him at the center of your marriage is important, and that’s why these Bible verses about wives, marriage, and love are crucial to hold dear in your heart. Pray over these verses alone or with your spouse to encourage and uplift your life and your marriage. Check out our list, which is sorted by topic — Bible verses about being a good wife, Bible verses about marriage, and Bible verses about love.

Psalm 23 is one of the most well-known and beloved Bible chapters. Its contents have been known to inspire people to remember God’s grace and guidance in times of turmoil and difficulty. The scriptures held within are a powerful reminder that we have a loving God who journeys alongside us as we navigate life’s many ups and downs.

Millions of Americans will join together in prayer on May 2, 2019, turning to the Almighty to ask for His blessings upon the nation. It’s an annual celebration known as the National Day of Prayer — a special event that holds a deep and profound history.

Forgiveness is one of the most difficult quests in the human experience, especially when it comes to horrific crimes and injustices. Survivors of events like the Columbine tragedy – people who have made a concerted effort to let go of hate and anger toward those who perpetrated the unthinkable — offer some of the most powerful acts of forgiveness for us to ponder.

Hollywood film producer DeVon Franklin recently spoke out about his new hit film, “Breakthrough,” revealing that the movie, which stars actors Chrissy Metz and Topher Grace, is based on the true story of a teenager who died and then came back to life after his mother uttered an impassioned prayer to God.

Hard work and dedication yield results. The Bible tells us the importance of developing a solid work ethic, and of putting our all into everything we do. There are numerous Bible verses about hard work and diligence — scriptures that should get us thinking deeper about how we are to look at our jobs and responsibilities.

Douglas MacKinnon has had a fascinating life and career. A writer for Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush, a former Pentagon official and an author and columnist, MacKinnon’s career has been robust and impactful — but it’s his faith journey that has perhaps been the most transformative and uplifting.  

The Bible makes it clear that Christians should find their purpose and identity in Jesus. Believers are called to allow God to guide their paths. A true and authentic faith means learning how to hand one’s life over to the Lord and allowing Him to work through each and every person. Unfortunately, many of us hold back from truly allowing God to work in our lives.

Among the Bible’s most touching stories of personal transformation is the criminal on the cross’ embrace of Jesus — a moment that came as Christ was dying alongside him. The gospels tell us that two “rebels” were put to death alongside Jesus. We aren’t given their names, though Luke illustrates the stunning conversations that unfolded as their lives drew to a close.

The Easter story is the centerpiece of the Christian faith — one that offers faith, hope and redemption to humanity. It is the story of Jesus Christ’s willing sacrifice on the cross to save the sins of every man, woman and child who has and who will ever live.

The Bible is filled with scriptures that teach us how to forgive a person who has wronged us, how to ask God for forgiveness and how to journey through the pain we sometimes experience in life. In addition to these scriptures that guide us, there are also numerous stories that show us how well-known Bible figures came to forgiveness in their own lives.

Kristopher Polaha is one of the most faithful actors in Hollywood, with a story about rediscovering faith that holds the power to inspire us all. Polaha, who has starred in films and TV shows like “Where Hope Grows,” “Run the Race” and “Life Unexpected,” recently revealed how he once fell away from his Christian roots but was brought back after an unexpected life event.

Americans were left shocked and horrified after two students entered Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado, on April 20, 1999, and gunned down 12 of their fellow students and one teacher before turning their weapons on themselves.

Apologists Ken Ham and Ray Comfort are on a mission to inspire Christians to share their faith more boldly. They are joining forces for an upcoming conference that seeks to answer atheists’ biggest critiques of the Christian faith.

After nearly two decades as a pastor, speaker and Christian leader, Shane Pruitt has discovered some of the pervasive “lies” that too many people of faith have come to believe. And he’s on a mission to right these theological wrongs in an effort to stop misplaced beliefs from holding people back in their faith.

Dr. Anthony Levatino is a gynecologist who performed around 1,200 first and second trimester abortions early in his career before a stunning change-of-heart left him sickened and distraught, transforming him into an outspoken pro-life advocate.

Can human beings truly trust the Bible? Is it reliable? One of the most frequent criticisms made by atheists and skeptics against the Old and New Testaments is that the texts are dated, antiquated and contradictory — and that they are a collection of books written by mere men.  

Spring is here, and with the change of seasons will come warmth, the blooming of flowers and the ushering in of new life all around us. And as we gear up for warmer weather and our collective emergence from the cold, winter months, perhaps it’s a good time to be thinking about how we can also spiritually reset and spark the budding of our own personal faith journeys.

Apologist Ray Comfort has released a new film that aims to change hearts and minds. “7 Reasons” is a movie that challenges viewers to think deeper about the abortion debate — a project that was motivated by Comfort’s discontent with the current state of affairs in America.

Forgiveness is at the core of the Christian gospel. It is simultaneously one of the most beautiful and difficult acts for human beings to embrace and live out, but luckily we are offered the most profound example of how to forgive when we examine God’s love for mankind. The Lord so loved humanity that He sent Jesus Christ to sacrifice himself and die for every person’s sins.

It’s been two years since Mandy Harvey absolutely stunned the world with her viral “America’s Got Talent” performance — a display that left the typically harsh Simon Cowell in awe. Harvey’s vocals were on-point, but that wasn’t the only reason Cowell, his fellow judges and the studio audience erupted in applause and a standing ovation.

Emeal “E.Z.” Zwayne was once a troubled teen and gang member who attempted suicide in front of his own family — but his life radically transformed after a chance encounter when the Bible instantaneously changed his heart. Years later, he’s a dynamic speaker who has executive produced Christian films and reached millions of people with the gospel.

Biblical Christianity has faced no shortage of critique over the past two millennia, with atheists and skeptics questioning whether the scriptures can be trusted — and whether Jesus was truly the man portrayed in the gospels.

Of all the babies I’ve had the chance to know since birth, Leo is probably my favorite. His mama, Rebecca, and I met at work around the same time she found out she was pregnant, which is why we refer to him as our “friendship baby.” I like to think that one day when we’re old and gray and can’t recall how long we’ve known one another, we’ll hold up our best guesses to the age of her fourth son. But for now, Leo is almost 4, which is old enough to almost pronounce my name correctly (Although I somewhat hope he says “Kait-Win” forever), yet still young enough to let me place him on my lap and marvel at his curly blonde locks.

John 3:16 is without a doubt one of the most popular and well-known Bible verses in the Christian world. It provides the core context of the Christian gospel, revealing the fact that God so intensely loved humanity that He sent His son to die on the cross to save mankind from its sin. It is the reality in this verse that underpins the entirety of the biblical narrative.

Apologist Ray Comfort is known for his creative approach to sharing the gospel. Comfort, who founded the Living Waters ministry, regularly creates documentaries and other outreach projects aimed at reaching people with biblical truth. But the well-known apologist wasn’t always the Bible-believing man he is today.

God’s Word offers guidance for our lives. The scriptures cover a variety of subjects pertaining to God the Father, performing good works and dealing with stress and worry. But the Bible isn’t simply limited to those topics, as the New and Old Testaments also tell us about hard work, dedication and advice we can heed for how to handle the workplace.

St. Patrick’s Day is a widely observed celebration, though secular society has transformed the ways in which it is commemorated. While the real meaning of the day is often forgotten in pop culture, it’s important to go back to the roots of what it’s really about: the remembrance of St Patrick, a man credited with following God’s call and helping bolster the Christian faith in Ireland.

Chris Pratt has had no shortage of public moments during which he has openly shared his Christian faith, with the actor telling young people and adults, alike, that God loves them, wants the best for them — and that he personally seeks a relationship with the Almighty.