Astonishing Sparks

In these pages I share and explain insights into biblical “mysteries,” a word used by both Jesus Christ and the Apostle Paul in the New Testament. I begin with methods of biblical interpretation, including how to “rightly divide” the Scriptures, then I proceed to reveal insights into a number of perplexing biblical “mysteries.” In doing so, I use both historical fiction and autobiographical approaches to help the ideas come alive. The Apostle Paul wrote that "a natural man does not accept the things of the spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually appraised (I Corinthians. 2:14). Consequently, I seek to explain how to search the Scriptures wisely, beginning with some simple methods that help uncover the spiritual depths of the Words of God, not just their literal meanings. With this foundation, I then lead the reader through a number of lessons necessary for seeing in the Spirit, seeking foremost to define what Jesus Christ, the Apostle Paul, and others meant by this term "mystery," a word often used to describe the secrets that God desires to reveal to us: "But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, a wisdom which is hidden" (I Corinthians 2:7). While my training is in teaching, not theology, my expertise in language and literature qualifies me to help others find fresh insights and uncover current misreadings and even false teachings that may lead them astray. Since a reliance on the Holy Spirit for true discernment forms the foundation for true spiritual growth, believers must not simply assume meanings based on tradition, common knowledge, worldly wisdom, or the words of those who may even be false teachers in disguise. I began my career in 1971, as a Secondary English Teacher, and later as a Professor of Literature and English at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Thus, I have devoted most of my life to helping students understand literary texts. Also, as a pastor and Bible teacher, I have endeavored to show Christian believers how to hear from the Holy Spirit and learn from the Scriptures.