TruthSum

This Short explores the significant impact that leaders have on the well-being of their people, drawing on biblical principles as a framework for evaluating leadership. The script opens by referencing Proverbs 29:4, which emphasizes the importance of justice in leadership for providing stability to a country, while warning against the corrupting influence of greed. It then moves to Proverbs 6:16, listing seven harmful behaviors that can lead to the downfall of both leaders and society: arrogance, lying, violence, wicked schemes, hastiness in evil deeds, spreading falsehoods, and inciting conflict. The narrative then takes a transformative turn, inviting the audience to imagine a world where these destructive behaviors are replaced with their opposites. It paints a vision of a society where humility, honesty, protection of the innocent, ethical planning, fairness, truthfulness, and harmony are the guiding principles. The script concludes with a powerful call to action, challenging both individuals and leaders to uphold these higher standards to foster justice, integrity, and positive change within their communities. The overarching message is one of hope and the potential for real transformation when values aligned with justice and truth are prioritized. truthsum.org

Imagine a world where we all prioritize just one of the Ten Commandments: Thou shalt not lie. What if lying was eradicated? The world would transform in remarkable ways. Honesty would become the norm, fostering trust and authenticity in every part of life. Relationships would thrive on genuine communication, leading to deeper connections and mutual understanding. Integrity and accountability would be highly valued, shaping both personal and societal interactions. People would take responsibility for their actions, knowing that honesty is the foundation of a just society. Conflicts could be resolved more effectively through open dialogue, reducing misunderstandings and fostering mutual respect. In this world, businesses and governments would operate with transparency, earning and maintaining public trust. Overall, a world without lies would be marked by authenticity, trust, and harmony, where individuals live with integrity, guided by truth. truthsum.org

A world without coveting would be one of contentment, where envy fades and gratitude flourishes. We'd celebrate each other's successes, embrace sustainability, and find peace in what we have rather than what we lack. Imagine the harmony and empathy that would follow. Truthsum.org

The Frankfurt School, a group of German intellectuals fleeing Nazi Germany, brought radical ideas to America that influenced education and culture. Central to their philosophy was Critical Theory, which challenges power structures, values individual experiences, and promotes subjective morality. These ideas have shaped modern education and social justice movements, deconstructing traditional values, including God and the family model. truthsum.org

Ever wondered about life's purpose? The Bible says God is a family of creators, and our purpose is to join that family. Jesus paved the way for us to become children of God. #Purpose #Bible #SpiritualJourney

Pentecost: Pentecost marks the birth of the New Testament Church. In Leviticus 23, God instructed Israel to observe Pentecost by counting fifty days from the Sabbath during the Feast of Unleavened Bread. On that same day in A.D. 31, the apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit, spoke in different languages, and Peter's sermon led to 3,000 baptisms. This event began God's Church, opening the way for all people to have a relationship with Him. The New Testament Church continued observing Pentecost, as many Christians do today. Pentecost reminds us of the Holy Spirit's power, the start of the Church, and the transformation of lives in preparation for the coming Kingdom of God. truthsum.org Pentecost #Pentecost #HolySpirit #NewTestamentChurch #FaithJourney

Life can feel like a whirlwind, pulling us in every direction. But the Sabbath offers something different: a time to pause, disconnect from the world's noise, and reconnect with what truly matters.

This comment draws a striking parallel between the parable of the prodigal son and the current state of the United States, highlighting the nation's departure from its foundational principles and the consequences of unchecked behavior. It prompts reflection on whether a significant crisis will be the catalyst for a national awakening and a return to spiritual values.

following Passover, is a seven-day festival in the Hebrew calendar, beginning on the 15th day of the first month. Its first and last days are holy Sabbaths. Symbolizing deliverance from sin akin to Israel's escape from Egypt, leaven represents sin's influence, prompting the removal of it from our lives. Paul urges the Corinthians to "keep the Feast," emphasizing replacing malice and wickedness with sincerity and truth. This Feast, marking the second step in God's salvation plan, focuses on removing leavening and consuming unleavened bread, representing Christ's righteousness and our role in purging sin with God's aid.

In preparation for His betrayal and crucifixion, Jesus instructed His disciples to observe the final Passover, a tradition dating back to the Exodus. Symbolizing Jesus as the Lamb of God, this Passover took on new significance. Jesus exemplified love through foot washing, urging His followers to do likewise. He introduced new symbolic meaning for the bread and wine, representing His body and blood for the remission of sins. These examples and traditions remain yearly reminders to many Christians who continue to observe the Passover. In 1 Corinthians 11:23 through 26, Paul emphasized the importance of this memorial, applicable to all who follow Jesus. His sacrifice addresses the consequences of sin, offering salvation and eternal life to those who believe. The 'Passover' marks the first step in God's plan of salvation! truthsum.org

Saint Patrick's Day: St. Patrick's Day, often seen as a nod to Irish culture, actually has deep roots in syncretism—blending pagan customs with Christianity. But should Christians engage in such practices? The Bible warns against mixing worship with pagan rituals. So, does syncretism truly spread the gospel or obscure its message? truthsum.org

During the week of Jesus' crucifixion, two Sabbaths were observed: the weekly Sabbath and the annual Sabbath of the first day of Unleavened Bread. Historical dating places this annual Sabbath on Thursday. The timeline suggests Passover on Tuesday, crucifixion on Wednesday, burial in the late afternoon, the annual Sabbath on Thursday, Mary Magdalene purchasing spices on Friday, the weekly Sabbath on Saturday, and Christ's resurrection right before sunset on Saturday afternoon. This timeline aligns with historical data, gospel accounts, fulfills a prophecy in Daniel about the Messiah, and corresponds to the sign Jesus gave of being three days and three nights in the grave. Truthsum.org

Unveiling the context of Colossians 2:16 & 17 reveals a nuanced perspective often misunderstood. Paul wasn't advocating the abolishment of dietary regulations and Sabbaths but countering a Gnostic tradition in Colossae. He urged joyful participation in God-ordained festivals, rejecting the misconception of dismissing divine rules. Paul aimed to preserve the community's festive spirit while honoring God, not diminishing essential practices. A reminder that understanding context is key to unraveling timeless truths. truthsum.org

Three biblical facts about Samson: a man bestowed with an extraordinary gift of remarkable strength. However, like all of us, he also had his weaknesses. These both subjected him to a life filled with tests and challenges. Despite the trials, he embraced his life of trouble and grief with a cheerful spirit, finding humor even in disappointment and ultimately fulfilling his calling with a humbled resolve.

Jeremiah, the prophet with a powerful legacy. 1) Called young, he doubted his influence due to youth. 2) Warned of Babylonian siege to Judah's last kings. 3) Despite threats and imprisonment, he wasn't martyred. His enduring words shaped history, pointing to Christ's coming.

The Bible's accuracy stands the test of time. Despite debates, its teachings on human nature vs. God's remain consistent throughout history. When science and archaeology confirm its historical aspects, it only strengthens its credibility. truthsum.org

Cupid's various incarnations consistently involve a connection to a divine mother figure, entwined in intricate narratives that explore themes of love, fertility, and the cyclical nature of life and death, symbolized through the mother-son relationship. In Roman mythology, Cupid is linked to Venus, and fertility was sought through the pagan festival Lupercalia, a mid-February celebration involving practically naked boys running through the streets, striking onlookers with hide straps smeared with sacrificial blood. In Hellenistic Greek mythology, Cupid aligns with the young god Eros, the son of a jealous mother. He is depicted as a youthful adult with ties to the beautiful mortal, Psyche. Beyond Rome and Greece, Cupid resonates with deities like Tammuz in Mesopotamia and Osiris in Egypt. Symbolism of doves, roses, and celestial elements intertwines with fertility rituals and sun worship. Don't be deceived by his cute demeanor; the winged bearer of the bow is a continuation of ancient pagan worship rites, preserving customs and traditions through the ages. truthsum.org

The dirty game of politics is once again front and center, marred by elements of corruption, deceit, greed, and tribalism—all in the pursuit of power. 'Anything goes' because 'the ends justify the means.' From those in power to the average person, far too many get caught up in this game. In contrast, the Bible, through Paul, introduces a distinct and different contest with a unique definition of winning. This pursuit demands true discipline and shapes every aspect of our lives. Losing in this endeavor would result in the forfeiture of a spiritual reward. So, perhaps, if we are considering a 'lower set of standards' in pursuit of anything, we are caught up in the wrong game. truthsum.org

Many Christians may not perceive the significance of the distinction between clean and unclean meat as laid out in the Old Testament. Often, verses like Matthew 15:11 are cited without proper context, where Christ states, 'It's not what goes into the mouth that defiles a man, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a man.' In Acts, Peter's vision of a sheet with unclean animals descending from heaven, accompanied by Christ's directive to 'rise, Peter; kill and eat,' for 'What God has cleansed, you must not call common.' Paul echoes similar sentiments in Romans 14:14, affirming, 'I know and am convinced by the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself.' However, what's often overlooked is that the Bible seems to indicate that none of these men actually consumed the flesh of unclean animals before or after these statements. Perhaps, in this case, context would provide well-needed clarification and deeper understanding. truthsum.org

A misconception in mainstream Christianity posits Jesus' sacrifice as the latest effort in an ongoing battle between good and evil. This view implies previous failures, contrary to Ephesians 1:4, stating God's pre-existing plan for salvation 'before the foundation of the world.' Viewing human history as a permitted time for self-rule, not a manifestation of a spiritual battle, suggests God's law comprises timeless principles reflecting His mind, relevant for all mankind since the Garden of Eden. truthsum.org

The much-needed art of #DelayedGratification goes against our human nature. Embracing it and #FinancialWisdom could help save those who practice it from a future of regret. US debt hits a whopping #34Trillion—A national need for financial prudence! 💸 #MoneyMatters

After King Solomon's death, Israel's history unfolded as a tale of idolatry and disobedience, leading to a significant division between the northern 10 tribes (Israel) and the southern tribes (Judah). Both kingdoms faced consequences for their disobedience, with Israel falling to the Assyrians and Judah to the Babylonians. The Babylonian captivity profoundly impacted the Jewish people, prompting leaders to establish traditions as safeguards against future disobedience. By the time of Christ's first coming, these traditions overshadowed the original laws. Jesus addressed this, noting, "Why do you transgress the commandment of God because of your tradition?" The zealous commitment to these traditions overshadowed God's law. Unfortunately, they didn't heed the first half of a warning found in Deuteronomy not to add or subtract from God's word. Ironically, contemporary Christianity, with similar zeal, has neglected the second half of this same warning by dismissing elements of God's laws in favor of their own traditions. truthsum.org

As belief in God declines in the 'West,' it has become evident to many that our shared standard of morality is being dismantled. King David understood this mindset; he lamented, 'The fool has said in his heart, "There is no God," and now they are corrupt; they have done abominable works. There is none who does good.' The decline of this biblical law-based morality is intentional, orchestrated by those who seek to eliminate God and, by extension, truth and morality. Unfortunately, this is not merely an issue for those who profess 'not to believe in God,' but a human one, as elements of this law have been rejected even by the most vocal professing to 'love Him.'

In the book of Revelation, John wrote in contrasting terms about those who received the Mark of the Beast with 'the saints,' defined as 'those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.' He also highlights, as the end approaches, that Satan will desire to persecute the church and will make war with, again, 'those who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.' And yet, the debate will continue on whether God's law is relevant for the modern church.

When engaging with the Pharisees and Sadducees, a people who proudly proclaimed themselves as 'God's chosen,' Jesus exposed the human inclination to prioritize 'reasoning' and 'tradition' over God's expansive Law of love. Despite the lessons provided by Jesus and the apostolic church, encompassing both Jews and Gentiles who observed God’s meaningful Sabbaths, today's Christians continue the tradition of observing pagan-based holidays like Christmas, New Year's, Easter, and Sunday services. It seems that the lesson of placing our traditions above God's law has yet to be fully grasped. Truthsum.org