New exercises
Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem (John 12:12-19)
This passage describes Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. A large crowd gathers to welcome him, waving palm branches and shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the king of Israel!” Jesus enters the city riding on a young donkey, fulfilling the prophecy from...
Mary Anoints Jesus at Bethany (John 12:1-11)
Six days before Passover, Jesus arrives in Bethany, where Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead, is living. A dinner is given in his honor. Martha, ever faithful in her role of service (διακονέει [diakoneō]), tends to the needs of those present. Meanwhile, Mary performs a profound and symbolic...
Plot to Kill Jesus (John 11:45-57)
John 11:45-57 illustrates how human opposition to Jesus ultimately serves God's salvific purpose. The passage highlights Jesus' sacrificial death, the gathering of believers, and the blindness of those who reject him. After Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead, many Jews believe in him (ἐπίστευσαν...
Topics
Hymn
Early Christian hymns found in the New Testament are thought to be fragments of the oral tradition that preceded the written texts. These hymns served as a way for early Christians to express their devotion, honor, and praise to God. These poetic passages offer insight into the theology, beliefs,...
Easter
Traditionally, Easter commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, several texts make up the theology and significance of Easter. In the Gospels, Easter closely aligns with the passion narrative (Matthew 26-27, Mark 14-15, and Luke 22-23). The text that opens Easter...
Heptads
The term heptad comes from the Greek word for "seven" and is used to refer to groups or series of seven in various contexts. In the context of the Biblical book of Revelation, heptads refer to several sets of seven that are significant in the symbolism and structure of the text. These...