Tag: creation

The Number “8” in Scriptures Means “New Beginnings”

One of the challenges of studying the scriptures, especially the Old Testament, is knowing which verses were meant to be interpreted literally and which verses were intended to be interpreted figuratively. Studying ancient literature, I learned that certain numbers were intended to be figurative, symbolic, or even magical. One key to spotting these figurative numbers is their repetition.  Their too frequent use goes beyond mere coincidence. The Number “8” is … Continue reading The Number “8” in Scriptures Means “New Beginnings” →

The Age of the Earth – “Science vs Religion”

"Sunday Sermon" “The scriptures do not say how old the earth is, and the Church has taken no official stand on this question. Nor does the Church consider it to be an issue for salvation.” (Encyclopedia of Mormonism, “Age of Earth,”) The belief that the earth is only 6,000 or 13,000 years old In 1650, … Continue reading The Age of the Earth – “Science vs Religion” →

Miracles of the Creation of the Earth and Cosmos

 We are surrounded by the wondrous miracles of creation. “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the skies proclaim the work of his hands” (Psalm 19:1). Prophet Alma Versus Atheist Korihor There is a story in the Book of Mormon wherein Korihor, the atheist, tried to destroy the church and the faith of the … Continue reading Miracles of the Creation of the Earth and Cosmos →

In Synch: Saint Justin Martyr and the Prophet Joseph Smith

Justin Martyr and the First Apology Saint Justin Martyr (100-165 AD) is one of the first Christian apologists.  (“Apologies” are defenses of Christianity.)  His First Apology (155-157 AD) was written to the Roman Emperor. Justin explained Christian beliefs and practices.  He denied rumors that Christians were atheists and disloyal to the empire.  He also rejected … Continue reading In Synch: Saint Justin Martyr and the Prophet Joseph Smith →

Our Existence: Purpose or Accident? – C.S. Lewis & Marcus Aurelius (Great Quotes)

"Faith on Friday" & "Great Quotes" If our thoughts are the product of accidents, how can we trust them?             “If the solar system was brought about by an accidental collision, then the appearance of organic life on this planet was also an accident, and the whole evolution of man was an accident too.             “If … Continue reading Our Existence: Purpose or Accident? – C.S. Lewis & Marcus Aurelius (Great Quotes) →

Genesis is Unique Among Ancient Creation Stories

"Saturday Sermon" and "Doctrinal Commentary" The Genesis Account Genesis in unique among ancient creation stories. The Genesis is poetic and beautiful.  It is sophisticated and inspirational. In Genesis mankind is God’s masterpiece. Men and women are the crown of creation.  Humans are made in the very image of God. The Genesis author’s theme and purpose … Continue reading Genesis is Unique Among Ancient Creation Stories →

“The Creation: A Negro Sermon”

James Weldon Johnson (1871-1938) was an African American writer, poet, and civil rights activist. He was a leader of the NAACP, and the first African American professor at New York University where he taught creative literature and writing.  President Theodore Roosevelt appointed him as U.S. Consul in Venezuela and Nicaragua. (As with most of my … Continue reading “The Creation: A Negro Sermon” →

Heavenly Father and Jesus are Gods of Miracles

Albert Einstein observed: "There are only two ways to live your life. One is a though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle." People of faith live in a world filled with wondrous miracles. Sadly, agnostics and atheists, live in a dreary world devoid of miracles. There are an infinite … Continue reading Heavenly Father and Jesus are Gods of Miracles →