Author: Shalem John
The Book of Jonah stands as one of the most fascinating and distinctive writings within the collection of the Minor Prophets in the Hebrew Bible. Though brief, consisting of only four chapters, it is a richly layered narrative that continues to capture the imagination of readers, theologians, and scholars alike. The story of Jonah—called by God to preach repentance to the people of Nineveh, only to flee in the opposite direction—goes far beyond the well-known image of a prophet swallowed by a great fish. It is a profound reflection on God’s mercy, human disobedience, divine compassion, and the universal scope…
When news broke last month that ICE had detained more than 300 Korean nationals at a Hyundai plant near Savannah, Georgia, Christina Shin took a break from posting reviews of beauty products and irreverent slice-of-life videos on TikTok to address the issue of immigration. Shin criticized the raid and the Korean American Christians who used the catchline, “Illegal is illegal” to defend ICE’s right to enforce the law. “We are privileged that our parents got here legally, got the paperwork, made us [to] be born in the States,” Shin says into the camera, speaking to second-generation Korean Americans who take…
The Book of Ezekiel stands as one of the most complex, profound, and visionary works within the Hebrew Bible. As the third of the Major Prophets, following Isaiah and Jeremiah, it presents a powerful theological message shaped by the crisis of the Babylonian exile. Through vivid imagery, symbolic actions, and divine revelations, Ezekiel addresses themes of judgment, restoration, and the glory of God. Written during one of Israel’s darkest historical moments, the book offers both stern warnings and enduring hope, revealing God’s sovereignty over history and His faithfulness to His covenant people. Historical Background Ezekiel’s prophetic ministry took place during…