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History

On the context of the ancient world and the Bible ––– from daily life and practices to overarching historical narrative, events, and anthropology of empires, nations, tribes, religions, cultures, and more.

Where Is Bethsaida? —

Uncovering the precise location of this (in)famous New Testament village.

Where Is Bethsaida? —

Uncovering the precise location of this (in)famous New Testament village.

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Despite being known from the Bible and from history, the precise location of the New Testament village of Bethsaida is still debated. The New Testament gospels record that the apostles Peter, Andrew, and Philip were originally from Bethsaida (John 1:44; 12:21), and that Jesus travelled
Tracking Temple Artifacts —

On the history of the original articles inside the Tent Tabernacle.

Tracking Temple Artifacts —

On the history of the original articles inside the Tent Tabernacle.

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Until its final destruction by Rome in AD 70, the Temple in Jerusalem had been a key component of Judaism since the days of Moses (1400s BC). In Moses’ day, the Temple’s predecessor was the Tent Tabernacle. This tent was constructed based on detailed instructions
Genesis 1 & 2: Different Creation Accounts? —

On how Genesis 1 and Genesis 2 are complementary, not contradictory.

Genesis 1 & 2: Different Creation Accounts? —

On how Genesis 1 and Genesis 2 are complementary, not contradictory.

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While practically every chapter and verse of the Bible has come under scrutiny at some time or another, probably no other Biblical book has been more viciously attacked than Genesis. And there’s a very good reason for that: The historical account of Genesis is foundational
Reading & Writing in the First Century —

Were the first century New Testament writers illiterate?

Reading & Writing in the First Century —

Were the first century New Testament writers illiterate?

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The New Testament makes many significant claims. But one that can be easily overlooked is its claim that it is a written record. Turning to the Gospels, for example, we notice Luke’s opening statement: “Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order
Mark of Authenticity —

Is the Gospel of Mark really an authentic eyewitness account of Jesus Christ’s ministry?

Mark of Authenticity —

Is the Gospel of Mark really an authentic eyewitness account of Jesus Christ’s ministry?

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The Gospel of Mark, though coming after Matthew, was probably the first of the four Gospels to be written. And as the title of the book indicates, it is John Mark’s account of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. But besides the title how