It surprises people when I tell them, but the New Testament says to greet each other with a “holy kiss” four times, from the apostle Paul to four different churches.

Acts 17 records how Paul entered Mars Hill, central to the secular culture. Stepping into Mars Hill, Paul addresses a whole society and history with the Good News of the Kingdom of God.

"Apostasy" sounds like one of those complex, churchy words. But it is a deeply serious issue that is seen throughout Scripture. Just what does this word mean, and is it something that we should be worried about in our own lives?

Jesus tells people to “go and sin no more” in two key passages, both in John’s gospel.

A bruised reed would normally be dismissed or thrown away; a smoldering wick, not enough to catch anything else on fire, almost dead itself, it would be snuffed out. But Jesus did the opposite.

Jesus' parable tells of a rich man who dies and goes to hades, and a poor man who is taken to paradise. Although a wide chasm separates them, they are still able to communicate with each other. What are we to make of this story?

We teach our kids not to be possessive of their toys and treats. Even as teenagers and adults, we struggle with jealousy, desiring what others have for ourselves. Yet the Bible calls God jealous. How can that be, when He is absolutely good?

In a western world that is constantly blurring the lines between the sexes, we are faced with passages in Scripture that call cross-dressing "an abomination." Why exactly is that, and is this notion outdated, or does it still reflect the loving heart of God?

Graduation! After a few years growing and learning at school, young men and women move on to the next adventure. That might entail more schooling or a job, but one season ends and another begins. 

For many graduates, this causes a mix of emotions: excitement, anxiety, fear, or hope. They move from a place and community they know well and enter the unknown. 

While the Bible might not specifically address graduation from high school or college, the transition from one season to the next remains universal. As Scripture addresses the human experience, God knows the stress and anxiety of new seasons. 

Here are five promises of God every graduate should remember.

1. God Has a Good Purpose and Plan for You

Graduates face a host of unknowns: direction, calling, career, location, and more. But God gives a promise to speak hope to any fears. “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future’” (Jeremiah 29:11).

This promise doesn’t mean you will avoid struggles or problems. God gave these words to Judah in their Babylonian exile, a traumatic period in Israel’s history. However, he reminds them that even in the middle of confusion and waiting, he remains faithful. He will not only sustain them but lead them to flourishing and prosperity. 

This principle applies to God’s people today. He doesn’t make it up as he goes along. The Father knows your gifts, talents, desires, strengths, and hardships. He already has a plan which will honor him and bring hope and fulfillment to your life. 

God’s design for your good depends upon his continual guidance. He calls you to trust and obey him, seeking his face more than anything else he could give you. As you step forward into a new chapter (college, career, missions, or other), remember your future isn’t random. It’s God’s plan, and it’s not up to you to make it happen. You only need to follow the one who loves you and already has your specific good in mind.

Photo credit: ©Getty Images/Rattankun Thongbun

Studying the church gives us clarity about our identity and calling. Christianity isn’t a private faith but a journey to share with others. Learning Scripture regarding the ekklesia, we guard against false ideas, like the church being a building, a meeting on Sunday, or a human-made organization.

Familiar spirits are a sign of demonic deception and are in direct opposition to the Holy Spirit.

Hebrew tradition clearly attributes Lamentations to the prophet Jeremiah.