The word metamorphosis describes a radical transformation. It is most strikingly seen in the way a caterpillar transforms into a butterfly.
We undergo a spiritual metamorphosis when we come to faith in Christ. We put to death our old "caterpillar" state and begin a new life in our "butterfly" stage. Whereas before we were bound to the ways and whims of the world, we now find freedom, life, purpose, and hope. Jesus takes us from the depths of the grave to the heights of heaven.
When Paul paints this vivid picture of a believer's metamorphosis in Romans, he is not merely presenting an image but also making a declaration: Through faith in Christ, we die to our old life and slavery to sin. |
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Bible News The latest Bible-related and Bible-adjacent news |
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October 22 — In 2023, it was predicted that 100,000 churches would close in the U.S. in the next few years — but experts suggest the decline may be slowing. While 15,000 closures are expected in 2025, this reflects lingering effects of COVID-19 rather than a long-term trend. Small, aging congregations face challenges like declining attendance, financial strain, and costly building maintenance. However, many churches are adapting by repurposing properties for community use, such as affordable housing or shared spaces. (MinistryWatch) |
| October 22 — In the late 8th century BC, Assyrian invasions forced northern Israelite scribes to flee to Judah, influencing the Hebrew Bible with traditions about the 12 tribes and northern kings which scribes in the southern kingdom likely would not have known. Archaeological evidence, including seal impressions from a scribe named Menahem, reinforce this theory, while King Hezekiah's projects, like the Siloam Tunnel and new city wall, reflect northern influence and the effect of the influx of refugees. (Biblical Archaeology Society) |
| October 22 — As if to illustrate the previous story (below), a 2,700-year-old Neo-Assyrian inscription was discovered near Jerusalem's Temple Mount, providing the first direct evidence of royal correspondence between Assyria and Judah during the First Temple period. The fragment, inscribed in Akkadian cuneiform, mentions a delayed payment and a "chariot officer," an Assyrian royal envoy. Dated to the reigns of Sennacherib or Hezekiah, it aligns with biblical accounts of Judah's tribute to Assyria. (Jerusalem Post) |
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The Bible is full of towering wisdom, humbling reflection, intricate history, and magnificent poetry. But one aspect of Scripture that often gets overlooked? It's fun.
In the spirit of "spooky season," let's take a look at some of the stranger elements of Bible lore: its monsters. From giants and dragons to unicorns and chaos monsters, the Bible features a menagerie of mysterious and sometimes terrifying creatures. |
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Feel like you need a seminary degree just to understand your Bible? Bible Gateway Plus is here to help (and save you from endless Google searches). With access to 30 study Bibles, 13+ commentaries, six dictionaries, and so much more, you'll have everything you need to go deeper—without the student loans. Unlock ad-free access to trusted resources that answer your toughest theological questions—wherever you are. For a limited time, get Bible Gateway Plus for as low as $3.54/month during our Flash Sale with code FLASH15 and unlock powerful tools to enhance your Bible study. Try it free for 7 days! |
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Eve has been vilified throughout the ages as the first to sin and a seductress. Most early interpreters and many modern preachers continue to cast off the blame like Adam did for eating from the tree of knowledge of good and evil: "The woman you put here with me — she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it" (Gen. 3:12).
These are the last words we hear from Adam in the Bible. But after her own confession, Eve speaks again — twice.
What are the problems with Adam's response and how is Eve redeemed through the rest of the story in Genesis 4? |
| Though popular for Bible research and sermon prep, Bible Gateway Plus isn't just for pastors and scholars — it's a great way to revitalize your prayer life, with lots of devotional material to help you reflect and praise God for what he is doing in your life.
In fact, one of the best ways to use Bible Gateway Plus is together with Bible Gateway's Verse of the Day, a handpicked daily Bible verse (or two) designed to guide you into the Word.
With that in mind, here are some of the top Bible Gateway Plus resources for devotional Bible reading. |
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The Way of the Wildflower |
2025 Editor's Pick for Gift of the Year! Find freedom from weariness and anxious thoughts in The Way of the Wildflower by Ruth Chou Simons. Through 30 gospel-centered meditations and Ruth's beautiful watercolor art, discover how the God who cares for the wildflowers also cares for you—and let your soul find rest in Him. |
| This is the only NIV Bible with a printed hand-painted cover and hidden art along its page edges. Featuring stunning designs, this journaling Bible includes wide, lined margins for reflection and note-taking, shimmering foil gilding, and exquisite artistry that celebrates the beauty of God's Word. Perfect for yourself or as a gift. |
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*The Bible Gateway Flash Sale is valid through October 27, 2025. All prices are USD. Additional sales tax may apply. The 7-day free trial is available to new subscribers only. *FaithGateway sale price ends on 9/30/25. Limited quantities available. Sale pricing excludes ebooks and audiobooks. Free Standard Shipping for U.S. orders over $35 excluding Alaska and Hawaii. *Study Gateway Sale is valid for the Personal Plan, Small Group Plan or Church Plan, charged to the payment method you provided, starting at the end of your 7-day free trial. Valid for new and returning subscribers only. You may cancel your subscription at any time. Offer is valid through October 30, 2025. This email was sent to alitealbum.biblegateway@blogger.com by Bible Gateway, 501 Nelson Place, Nashville, TN 37214, USA. You received this message because you signed up to receive updates and offers from Bible Gateway and its sponsors. If you have questions or comments about
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