Examining the puzzling and problematic trend of painting slavery in the Bible as rosier than it actually was. In Part 1 of this two-part series, we look at the Scriptural and historical evidence.
Category: Precision of Language
![A close-up view of a bouquet of pink silk flowers.](https://www.whyhavewefasted.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/IMG_1318-850x638.jpg)
Is Complementarian a Real Word?
A question to prompt reflection of the word “complementarian.”
![A white bookmark-charm cross hangs from string tied in a Korean knot. It rests on the cover of a dark blue, leather-bound Bible, inscribed with a cross inlaid with Celtic knots.](https://www.whyhavewefasted.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_1108-850x638.jpg)
Who is the Gospel For, Anyway?
A situation faced by a pastor with his teenage daughter forces the question, who is the gospel for, anyway?
![A the petals of a hydrangea flower have faded to brown with the arrival of winter frost. Viewed against the background of brown fallen leaves.](https://www.whyhavewefasted.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/IMG_0371-850x638.jpg)
Precision of Language – Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Forgiveness and reconciliation are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing, especially in the context of a body of believers.
![Two children, their back to the viewer, climb to the top of a grassy sand dune.](https://www.whyhavewefasted.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/IMG_8947-850x638.jpg)
The Neglected VIP at Cana
This post aims to do a variety of things. First, to show the tension between precision in translations on the one hand and holding those same translations loosely on the other hand. Second, to reflect on the relationship between Jesus and his mother, Mary (the neglected VIP in this story). Third, to demonstrate when a regular habit of scripture reading led to fresh insights, even in an I-already-know-the-story moment.
![Looking down from the top of a cliff toward the ocean below, where waves splash against a boulder. Fog obscures the horizon and dampens the colors.](https://www.whyhavewefasted.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/P1010401-850x638.jpg)
Precision of Language – Definitions Matter
Why definitions of terms should matter to preachers/teachers, students/congregations, and elder boards, and the importance of spelling them out.