August 5, 2026
Micah envisions the coming of a Davidic ruler who is peace. That reign will extend to the ends of the earth and mean that everyone will live in security and prosperity. Yet, before that time arrives, a period of purgation–like labor pains–is necessary so that the descendants of Jacob learn to depend on Yahweh rather […]
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Biblical Texts | Tagged: Assyria, Babylon, Bethlehem, Israel, Judah, Messiah, Micah 5, Micah 5:2-5 | 
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Posted by John Mark Hicks
August 5, 2025
Psalm 137 begins with a powerful lament but ends with what some have called the worst verse in the Bible. Its last three verses are excluded from most Western modern liturgies, and it is a source of embarrassment to many believers, especially disciples of Jesus. Bobby Valentine and John Mark Hicks discuss both its lament […]
No Comments » | Biblical Texts | Tagged: Babylon, Divine Warrior, justice, Psalm 137, Psalm 137:9, Vengeance, Victim, Violence, Zion | Permalink
Posted by John Mark Hicks
September 20, 2024
What is the theological heart of the dream narrative in Daniel 2? The Statue of gold, silver, bronze, iron, and iron & clay serve the greater theological point: God gives power and wisdom, and God takes it away (deposes kings). Kings who are supposed to image God, as God intended from the beginning for all […]
No Comments » | Biblical Texts | Tagged: Babylon, Daniel 2, Dream, Greece, Kingdom, Persia, Prayer, Visions, Wisdom | Permalink
Posted by John Mark Hicks