Purge Me With Hyssop (February 2007)

February 2007
Volume 16, Number 2

A field of hyssop basks in the sun. Hyssop, a species of marjoram, is mentioned frequently in Scripture in connection with purification. It is especially linked with Passover, as the Israelites used hyssop to smear lamb's blood on the lintels and doorposts of the homes. What does hyssop symbolize in God's Word?  (allOver photography / Alamy)

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
Seeking God (Part One):
Our Biggest Problem

It is a wonderful thing that God has called us out of this world and paid the penalty for our sins, but what happens next? After making the covenant with God, how does a person avoid backsliding as so many biblical examples show? John Ritenbaugh answers these questions by explaining what seeking God is really all about.

Ready Answer
Jumping Into the Shallow Pond (Part One)
by Charles Whitaker

In an age when globalism is a reality, when immediate contact with far-flung peoples occurs every day, answering "Who is my neighbor?" is a vital necessity. En route to explaining Jesus' reply to the lawyer in Luke 10, Charles Whitaker exposes how today's celebrated thinkers answer this question.

Prophecy Watch
All About Edom (Part Three):
Obadiah
by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The Bible's most comprehensive prophecy about Edom appears in the twenty-one verses of Obadiah. Richard Ritenbaugh introduces this "minor" prophet and his inspired predictions concerning the descendants of Esau.

Purge Me With Hyssop
by Staff

The Bible frequently uses the hyssop plant as a symbol of cleansing and purification. In relation to Christ's sacrifice for our salvation, this herb has a connection to the Passover in both the Old Testament and the New.

WorldWatch
The Awakening Bear
by David C. Grabbe

For several decades, Russia has been in decline, plagued by internal problems and frustrated by the breakaway nations of its "near-abroad." David Grabbe points out, however, that Russian President Vladimir Putin is turning his nation's interests outward—and that does not bode well for international relations.

Bible Study
The Miracles of Jesus Christ:
The Great Catch of Fish
by Martin G. Collins

In performing the miracle of the great catch of fish, Jesus as Creator manifests His divine power over creation, forcing Peter to realize just who his Master was. Martin Collins explores this astounding miracle, extracting important lessons for us today.