The Oldest Christian Hymn Ever Found—And What It Reveals About Early Faith

 

The oldest known Christian hymn was discovered in the ancient Egyptian town of Oxyrhynchus.¹ According to Christianity Today², the fragment preserves 35 words, and the melody and rhythm written in ancient Greek musical notation. It is believed to be the conclusion of a longer hymn.

Here is the translated text:

 

Let all be silent:

The shining stars no longer sound forth,

All rushing rivers stilled,

As we sing our hymn

To the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,

As all Powers cry out in response,

“Amen, amen.”

Might, praise, and glory forever to our God,

The only giver of all good gifts.

Amen. Amen.

 

This fragment, known as the Oxyrhynchus Hymn (P.Oxy. XV 1786), has been dated to the 3rd century, around 260 AD.

One of the most striking features of the hymn is its clear reference to the Blessed Trinity — “To the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.” This reflects an early understanding of God's Trinitarian nature. The doctrine of the Trinity was already present in the Apostles’ Creed, composed sometime in the 2nd century AD. 

Contrary to the belief that Trinitarian theology developed much later, this hymn provides compelling evidence that the early church both understood and affirmed the doctrine of the Trinity.

In a recent development, Grammy-winning worship artist Chris Tomlin and Hillsong songwriter Ben Fielding have collaborated to create a new worship song titled The First Hymn.³ The song includes the lyrics of the Oxyrhynchus Hymn for a contemporary audience.

Endnotes:

 ¹https://earlychurchhistory.org/arts/oldest-known-christian-hymn/

 ²https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/04/ancient-first-hymn-greek-papyrus-historian-tomlin/

 ³https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qTyJu9lyVkI&ab_channel=ChrisTomlinVEVO

 

 

Cult Watch: Is Seventh-day Adventism a Cult or a Christian Denomination?

 

We explore whether the Seventh-day Adventist Church (SDA) is a cult or a Christian denomination.

For a brief overview of the SDA’s history, you can visit this link.¹

CARM.org outlines some of the core teachings and the more controversial doctrines of the SDA Church:²

Some of the key doctrines and teachings of Seventh-day Adventism.  Is it Christian? Does it teach aberrant doctrines?

Affirmations

1.     The Bible is inspired and the word of God.

2.     Trinitarian: The Father, Son, Holy Spirit are all one God in three persons.

3.     Jesus is God and has always existed with the Father.

4.     The Holy Spirit is a person.

5.     Jesus’ sacrifice was vicarious.

6.     Salvation is by grace, not works.

7.     Jesus rose from the dead physically in his glorified body.

8.     Jesus ascended bodily into heaven.

9.     Baptism is by immersion

10.  The literal, visible return of Jesus.

11.  Jesus will return to set up a millennial kingdom.  They are Premillennial.

12.  Literal six-day creation, not long periods.

Denials

1.     Denies the doctrine of predestination

2.     Denies baptism by sprinkling

3.     Denies infant baptism.

4.     Denies the immortality of the soul.

5.     Denies the eternality of hellfire.

6.     Denies any use of alcohol (as a drink) or tobacco.

Aberrant

1.     Our sins will ultimately be placed on Satan. (White, Ellen, The Great Controversy, p. 422, 485.)

2.     Jesus is Michael the Archangel.

3.     Worship must be done on Saturday (the Sabbath).

4.     On October 22, 1844, Jesus entered the second and last phase of His atoning work.

5.     Investigative Judgment – the fate of all people will be decided based upon this event in the future.

6.     The dead do not exist anymore — soul sleep.

7.     The wicked are annihilated.

8.     Ellen G. White, the “founder” of Seventh-day Adventism, was a messenger from God gifted with the spirit of prophecy.

9.     There is a sanctuary in heaven where Jesus carries out his mediatorial work.

Some heretical teachings of the SDA are:³

·       Ellen G. White made much of the Saturday Sabbath (sunset Friday to sunset Saturday), and believed that Christians should keep the Jewish Sabbath, even claiming that those not keeping the Sabbath would receive the Mark of the Beast! Hence this becomes a condition for salvation, again adding to the atoning work of Christ

·       Soul sleep and Annihilationism (which contradicts Matthew 25:46).

·       Christ will lay our sins on Satan! Satan is the “scapegoat” and will bear believers’ sins (The Great Controversy, p. 422, 485)—this is the opposite of what the Bible says about who bore our sins (1 Peter 2:24).

·       Seventh-day Adventists teach that Jude 9 refers to Christ. Jesus as Michael the archangel (Jude 1:9, Clear Word Bible, published by Review and Herald Publishing Association, 1994)—a doctrine that denies the true nature of Christ—and teaches that Jesus entered a second phase of His redemptive work on October 22, 1844, as prophesied by Hiram Edson.

·       Seventh-day Adventists still consider Ellen White to be a prophetess of God.

Here are some differences between SDA & Historic Christianity:

DOCTRINE / BELIEF	SDA	CHRISTIANITY
DIET	Vegetarian / Fish / Certain meats	No Prohibition
WORSHIP DAY	Saturday	Sunday
HELL	Annihilationism (No hell)	Literal Hell
HEAVEN	Heavenly Sanctuary	Literal New Heaven & New Earth
PROPHETS	Ellen G. White	Biblical Prophets only
2nd COMING OF CHRIST	Rapture / Premill	Premill / Postmill / Amill etc.
AFTER LIFE	Soul Sleep till Resurrection	Disembodied & conscious until resurrection

 So, is the SDA a cult?

The Adventist guide states the following:⁴

So, is it a Cult?

We think it’s fair to say that Adventism started as a cult. It was centered around William Miller at first, and people gave up their possessions and lives in preparation for what they believed to be the imminent return of Christ. This apocalyptic thinking still greatly influences the lives of Seventh Day Adventists – you’ll see Seventh Day Adventists as “preppers”

Is Adventism A Religious Cult?

The ongoing influence of Ellen G. White could certainly be regarded as cult-like. The SDA church is not a cult a la Scientology, in which members have been abused. We could refer to it as an “established cult” which, for some, might mean “a religion.” As Mormonism might be described as the “Cult of Joseph Smith” that outlasted Joseph Smith and continued to grow, Seventh Day Adventism could be described as the “Cult of William Miller and Ellen G. White” that outlasted them and grew beyond them.

 

Endnotes:

¹https://adventistguide.com/adventist-cult/

²https://carm.org/seventh-day-adventism/what-does-seventh-day-adventism-teach/

³https://www.spiritlifemag.com/why-seventh-day-adventists-are-a-cult/

⁴https://adventistguide.com/adventist-cult/

Websites last accessed on 19^th May 2025.

What Every Christian Needs to Know About the Antichrist—Before It’s Too Late

 

The term antichristos appears in the Bible only in the Johannine epistles (1 John 2:18, 22; 4:3; 2 John 1:7), but the concept it represents is found more broadly throughout Scripture. The prefix anti denotes opposition—specifically, one who opposes Christ, rather than someone who falsely claims to be Christ. This idea of the ‘antichrist’ can be seen in Old Testament passages such as Daniel 7:7ff and 21ff. In the New Testament, strong opposition to Christ is also described in 2 Thessalonians and the book of Revelation.

When John writes about the antichrist, he does not deny that an evil figure, called the antichrist, will appear at the end of the age. However, he emphasizes that the spirit or attitude of the antichrist is already present in many people (1 John 2:18). John further defines the antichrist as anyone who denies the Father and the Son:

“Who is the liar? It is whoever denies that Jesus is the Christ. Such a person is the antichrist—denying the Father and the Son” (1 John 2:22).

Additionally, John asserts that anyone who refuses to acknowledge the coming of Jesus Christ in the flesh is the antichrist (2 John 1:7).

Although Paul does not use the term antichrist, he refers to a similar figure in 2 Thessalonians 2:3ff, whom he calls “the man of lawlessness.” This figure clearly aligns with John’s antichrist. His defining trait is that he opposes and exalts himself above every so-called god or object of worship (2 Thess. 2:4), even claiming to be God. While he is not Satan himself, his arrival is powered by the activity of Satan (2 Thess. 2:9).

According to Paul, Satan’s ultimate act is not in the past but lies ahead in the future. Evil will one day make its final and greatest assault on good, led by this mysterious figure who derives his power from Satan. He will be the embodiment of Satan’s climactic rebellion against God.

Nevertheless, the outcome is certain: Christ will destroy the “man of lawlessness” (2 Thess. 2:8), defeating Satan’s final challenge.

The book of Revelation also presents imagery associated with the antichrist. At times, the symbolism refers directly to Satan—for example, the 'great red dragon' in Revelation 12:3, explicitly identified as Satan in verse 9. However, the “beast” of Revelation 11:7, though not Satan himself, is closely associated with him, as demonstrated by his actions.

Ways We Glorify God

 

God has created us to reflect His glory (Psalm 29:2). In all that we do, whether building our relationship with God, loving our neighbours, or exercising stewardship over creation, we are called to display God-like qualities such as skill, integrity, and moral virtue. Although our actions are marred by our sinful nature, they can still reflect the excellence of our Creator. While imperfect, they significantly glorify God.

Here are some ways we can glorify God in our daily lives:

·         When our ultimate goal in life is to glorify God (John 8:50).

·         By loving God above all else (Mark 12:30).

·         By loving our neighbours—parents, spouses, children, relatives, friends, and anyone we encounter (Colossians 3:12–14).

·         Through our good deeds toward others (Matthew 5:16; 1 Corinthians 10:31).

·         In our thoughts and words (Colossians 3:2).

·         By praising God with our lips (Psalm 63:3; 86:12).

·         Through our obedience to God and His Word (Malachi 1:6–7; 2:2).

·         By praying in Jesus’ name (John 14:13).

·         By bearing the fruit of the Spirit (John 15:8).

·         By living a holy life (1 Peter 2:9).

·         Through sexual purity [and marriage] (1 Corinthians 6:18–20).

·         By giving generously (2 Corinthians 9:13).

·         Even through our suffering and in death (John 21:19).

·         By sincerely confessing our sins (Joshua 7:19).

·         Through the strengthening of our faith (Romans 4:20; 2 Peter 3:18).

·         By standing up for God’s truth (Jude 3).

·         By being zealous for His name (Revelation 2:2).

·         By remembering God even in our eating and drinking (1 Corinthians 10:31).

·         When we lead others to God (Galatians 4:19).

·         By giving God the glory for all we have accomplished (1 Corinthians 15:10).

·         Through our work (Colossians 3:23).

·         In how we spend our free time (Ephesians 5:15–16).

·         By honouring God with our health (1 Corinthians 6:19–20).

May God bless and keep us always.

The Metaphysics of Glory: The Revelation of God’s Glory in Scripture and Church

 

The term “glory” is generally translated from the Hebrew word kabowd (pronounced kah-BOHD), which conveys the root idea of “heaviness,” and by extension, “weight” or “worthiness” (BibleHub – Heb. 3519). It is often used about humans to describe wealth, splendor, or reputation. For Israel, however, the true source of glory was not her armies but Yahweh Himself (Jeremiah 2:11).

The “glory of God” refers to the manifestation or revelation of God's being, nature, and presence to humanity, often accompanied by physical signs.

In the Old Testament

The glory of Yahweh accompanied HIS people during their exodus from Egypt and was visible in the cloud that led them through the wilderness (Exodus 16:7,10). This same cloud rested on Mount Sinai, where Moses witnessed God’s glory (Exodus 24:15–18). Although no one could see God and live (Exodus 33:20), a partial vision of HIS glory was granted (Exodus 34:5–8).

The glory of Yahweh filled the Tabernacle (Exodus 40:34–35) and was particularly evident during times of sacrifice (Leviticus 9:6,23). Later, it came to dwell in the Temple (1 Kings 8:11; 2 Chronicles 7:1–3).

In the Prophets, the concept of God’s glory is presented both physically, such as in Ezekiel’s vision (Ezekiel 1:28), and more spiritually, as seen in Isaiah’s prophecy (Isaiah 40:4–5; 60:1–3). Isaiah’s vision uniquely combines physical and spiritual aspects (Isaiah 6:1–4).

In the New Testament

The Greek word for glory is doxa, meaning honor, splendor, and majesty. In the New Testament, “glory” refers to the revelation of God's character and presence through the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is described as “the radiance of God’s glory” (Hebrews 1:3).

The glory of God was revealed to the shepherds at Jesus' birth (Luke 2:9,14), and to HIS disciples during HIS earthly ministry (John 1:14). It was first revealed at HIS initial miracle (John 2:11) and later at the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1–8). In John’s Gospel, Jesus’ "hour of glory" is understood as the moment of HIS sacrificial death (John 7:39; 12:23).

HIS resurrection and ascension are also seen as powerful manifestations of divine glory (Luke 24:26; Acts 3:13). Ultimately, God's glory will be fully revealed at the Second Coming (Mark 8:38; 13:26).

In the Church

The glory of God, revealed in the face of Jesus Christ, is still to be seen and reflected through the Church (2 Corinthians 4:3–6). This is the glory of the New Covenant (2 Corinthians 3:7–11), which believers share now (1 Peter 4:14) and will share in fullness in the life to come (Romans 8:18), especially as they suffer with Christ.

The mission of the Church is to ensure that the world acknowledges God's glory—displayed in HIS works (Acts 4:21), in HIS followers (1 Corinthians 6:20), and most supremely in HIS Son, the Lord of Glory (Romans 16:27; cf. Romans 15:9).

You Thought Christians Were Safe from Judgment? Think Again!

 

The Bible clearly affirms that there will be a final judgment for both believers and unbelievers. All people will stand before the judgment seat of Christ in their resurrected bodies to hear HIS proclamation concerning their eternal destiny (Rev. 20:11–15; Acts 17:30–31; Rom. 2:5).

Jesus Christ will be the judge (2 Tim. 4:1; Acts 10:42; John 5:26–27). Unbelievers will face judgment (Rom. 2:5–7), which will involve varying degrees of punishment (Rev. 20:12–13; Luke 12:47–48; cf. Matt. 11:22).

Believers, too, will be judged by Christ (Rom. 14:10, 12; 2 Cor. 5:10). However, this judgment will not result in eternal condemnation for them—that is, separation from God in hell (John 5:24; Rom. 8:1). Rather, the day of judgment will be a time of reward for believers and punishment for unbelievers.

During this judgment, all secret words and deeds—even sins—of believers will be revealed (1 Cor. 4:5; Col. 3:25). Just as there will be different degrees of punishment for unbelievers,¹ there will also be varying levels of reward for believers.²

That being said, we sometimes observe individuals who profess to be Christians, yet whose lifestyles raise serious questions about their allegiance—whether they are truly disciples of Jesus or followers of Satan. This is where we must consider Jesus’ words in Matthew 7:21–23:

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’”

These individuals evidently believed they were Christians. They had even exercised spiritual gifts such as prophecy, exorcism, and miracles. Yet Jesus plainly declares, “I never knew you.”

A similar warning is found in the Parable of the Sower (Mark 4). Some people hear the Word, but Satan immediately snatches it away. Others receive it with joy, but because they lack deep roots, they quickly fall away when trouble or persecution arises. Still others are unfruitful because of life's worries, the deceitfulness of wealth, and the desire for other things.

John 15:6 reinforces this warning: those who do not remain in Christ are like branches that are thrown away and burned. Similarly, sobering passages in Hebrews (6:4–6 and 10:26–31) speak of the danger of falling away after having received the truth.

In conclusion, we must seriously ask ourselves: Are we truly remaining in Christ? Are we bearing fruit? For those who claim to be Christians but do not abide in Christ and bear fruit, Scripture warns that they will be cast away and excluded from the eternal blessing of life with God in heaven.

Endnotes:

¹https://rajkumarrichard.blogspot.com/2022/08/different-levels-of-punishment-in-hell.html

²https://rajkumarrichard.blogspot.com/2021/04/varying-rewards-in-heaven.html

Websites were last accessed on 14/05/2025.

Are Mothers More Important Than Fathers? A Biblical Perspective

 

I recently watched some famous basketball players reflect on their mothers during Mother’s Day. The stories followed a similar theme: these men were raised by single mothers living in deep poverty, yet their mothers somehow made it work. Today, those players are millionaires—if not more.

This made me wonder: are mothers more crucial to a family’s well-being?

I manage a WhatsApp channel, and I posted a poll there asking whether mothers are more important than fathers. Surprisingly, fathers won the poll!

Then I decided to seek wisdom from the Bible.

The Role of a Father

A father in a Christian family has a clearly defined role:¹

• To be the head of the household, marked by love and sacrificial leadership, as Christ leads the church (Eph. 5:23).
• To foster the spiritual growth of his children (Eph. 6:4).
• To provide for the family’s physical needs (1 Tim. 5:8).

From a practical standpoint, God has designed fathers to have a unique and powerful influence on their families:²

• A father’s strength can be a source of protection.
• His words can inspire and motivate.
• His hugs can offer deep comfort.
• His smile can instill joy and confidence.
• His presence can make time fun and productive.
• His physicality can offer healthy challenge.
• His guidance can be life-changing and foundational.
• His correction can be life-saving and life-giving.
• Adventures with him can be exciting and memorable.

The Role of a Mother

A godly mother either possesses or develops the following qualities:³

• Speaks kindly (Prov. 31:26)
• Is nurturing (1 Thess. 2:7–8)
• Is loving (1 Cor. 13:4–5)
• Is patient (Col. 3:12)
• Is wise (Prov. 1:8–9)
• Works hard (Prov. 31:27)
• Is humble (James 4:6)
• Is faithful (Deut. 6:5–7)
• Is compassionate (2 Cor. 1:3–4)

According to Barna research, mothers tend to excel in the following areas:⁴

• Providing spiritual guidance and encouragement
• Engaging in conversations about faith, the Bible, sex, and any concerns children may have
• Supporting their children with encouragement, advice, and empathy

The Complexities of Single Parenthood

But what about single parents?

In a single-parent household, who is more effective—the father or the mother?

The truth is, neither can fully replace the other. Each has a unique, God-given role. However, a key factor for a successful single-parent household is the time and attention the parent can give to the children.

From a practical standpoint, especially when it comes to homemaking and childcare, it’s often more difficult for a single father to manage everything alone. In contrast, a single mother may find it somewhat easier to handle these responsibilities.

To conclude, the best foundation for any family, whether led by two parents or one, is complete dependence on God. A family rooted in Christ will always be better off than one that isn't.

 

Endnotes:

¹https://biblehub.com/topical/t/the_father_and_mother.htm

²https://www.focusonthefamily.com/parenting/fathers-matter-the-importance-of-a-father/

³https://therapyforchristians.com/blog/characteristics-of-a-good-mother-in-the-bible

⁴https://www.barna.com/research/moms-christians-households/ 

LGBTQ+ in the Crosshairs: How Will the New Pope Address One of the Church’s Biggest Challenges?

 

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has become the 267th pontiff of the Catholic Church, assuming the title Pope Leo XIV. He is the first American ever to hold the papacy, marking the beginning of a new era for the Roman Catholic Church. 

Now the spiritual leader of nearly 1.1 billion Catholics—nearly double the estimated 600 million Protestants—Pope Leo XIV faces the monumental task of guiding the Church forward. The pressing question is: Will he follow in the footsteps of his predecessor, Pope Francis, or forge a different path?

Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88, made significant strides in promoting inclusivity within the Church, particularly concerning the LGBTQ+ community. His famous remark—

“If someone is gay and he searches for the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?”

—underscored his more open stance.

Time Magazine Source 

 In 2023, Pope Francis ruled that Catholic priests could bless same-sex couples and signed a document allowing transgender individuals to be baptized and serve as godparents.

In contrast, Pope Leo XIV has expressed a more traditional perspective. In a 2012 address to bishops, he criticized the influence of Western media and culture, stating they promoted “sympathy for beliefs and practices that are at odds with the gospel.” He specifically referenced the “homosexual lifestyle” and “alternative families comprised of same-sex partners and their adopted children.”

New York Times Source 

On the issue of gender dysphoria, Pope Leo XIV has also taken a conservative stance. As Bishop of Chiclayo in northwestern Peru, he opposed government efforts to include gender education in schools, saying:

“The promotion of gender ideology is confusing, because it seeks to create genders that don’t exist.”

New York Times Source

The question now looms large:

Will the new Pope take a conservative path, or will he prove to be as progressive—or even more so—than Pope Francis?

Time will tell.

 In the meantime, let us uphold Pope Leo XIV in our prayers. May he lead the Roman Catholic Church with wisdom, compassion, and faithfulness, guiding believers to be devoted disciples of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.