Sexism or God’s Nature

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I would often tell people that I didn’t have a choice in the maker’s workshop between male and female forms; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit did not debate with you about your gender. Neither does anyone else. I was not offered a choice in my mother’s womb; I conclude that being male or female is a gift from God. Until we see that and live accordingly, rather than competitively or domineeringly, we will always have sexism. 

I have to state from the outset that I am not a feminist at all, nor do I wish to participate in the age-old war between the sexes. I am deeply aware that if we do not find all we see within the nature of God, it will become a fad rather than an established principle. This is my reason for this outline as a starting point. I believe it’s time not to have ‘women in leadership’ as some state to show they are ‘for women’, but we have an anchored understanding in the nature of God for male and female. Unfortunately, within the religious world, we have instilled a practice that stems from a misunderstanding of God’s view of male and female. This has set up headship in an incorrect fashion, and more reflects culture and social structures than what Father, Son and Holy Spirit – God – ever intended.

It is a rather long read for which I apologise; however, I believe it is helpful. I initially wanted to cover some fundamentals on the matter; forgive me for the many words.

Here is a statement to start. There is nothing domineering in God that we are meant to emulate; far from it—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (God). God is revealed in self-emptying, preferring the other rather than establishing who is at the top. God’s movement, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit functioning and flowing, does not support hierarchy at all, yet we have placed this front and centre within the religious and church world. Someone must be on top; this mentality often prevails within the church rather than embracing Jesus’ statement that He came not to be served, but to serve—ultimately shown in Jesus pouring Himself out for humanity. We should also emulate this. The pouring out of God brings about the restoration of humanity’s image and likeness, as well as the restoration of creation to God’s ultimate intention. A way of living that produces fear or domineering does not represent God. 

Where shall I begin with my thoughts? I recall an old song sung by Julie Andrews, playing the part of the nun Maria in the ‘Sound of Music’ film, that went “[MARIA sung] Let’s start at the very beginning, A very good place to start”. I suppose the best place is at the beginning, reaching back to Genesis 1, where the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, the Trinity in action, move as one to create, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit creating. First, create a time-space world and place mankind alongside the community of creation. This is a time before the whole of creation is defaced and the image is defaced.   Hold this thought for now. We were created in the Community of Creation, not just humanity but all of creation. 

Gen. 1;26-28

26 “Then God said, ‘Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.’ 27 So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. 28 God blessed them and said to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.’”

The terms “image” (Hebrew: tselem) and “likeness” (demut) are fundamental to understanding human identity in Judeo-Christian thought.

Image (tselem): Often interpreted as a representation or reflection; it implies that humans are a visible reflection of God’s presence in creation.

Likeness (Demut): Suggests similarity rather than identity; humans are like God in certain ways, but not divine, I must add.

Verse 26 of Genesis 1 says that the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit created “mankind” in God’s image and likeness.

The word “mankind” is the Hebrew word adamah. Unfortunately, we depart from the original form and aim of the narrative here. In adamah, it denotes humanity, in which both maleness and femaleness are present but not yet seen or understood; however, we will get there. The form “Adam” is used some 20 times as a proper name; it is used more than 500 times (Adamah) in reference to humanity. 

The word has exciting aspects, as its root is adamah, the Hebrew word for “ground’ or “earth”. This establishes the foundation before we consider the gender view that humanity, male and female, have a powerful and unique relationship with creation, planet Earth, and the community of creation. This opens up a whole new view on creation and eschatology, perhaps a topic for another time. 

While Gen. 1 introduces us to adamah – humanity, in the narrative extended in Gen. 2, when ‘woman’ (ish-shah) is formed from humanity (adamah), please note that God also calls the man ‘Adam’, a proper name. From this time forward, the text shows that the words for male (ish) and female (ish-shah) are used to distinguish Adam and Eve (Chavah). Eve is not named until after what is traditionally called ‘the Fall’. Prior to that, she was referred to as ish-shah. Chavah (Zoe), meaning the “to give life” or “living one,” became the mother of all life. Already, a challenge to consider “mother of all life” for some readers, I am sure.

Let us be very clear that when the adamah is created in the image and likeness of God, it refers to “them” (hem), meaning humans, “male and female”, not man–male. This is an age-old misrepresentation of the text. It’s not that males were created first, then females, as a created order giving headship to males; this would be a misuse of the text. For example, if a hierarchy of creation were being established, we would need to maintain integrity and apply it consistently across the whole created order.

Let me explain the hierarchy in creation we have: 

Day 5: Sea Creatures and Birds 

  • God filled the waters with living creatures and the sky with birds, blessing them to multiply. “Let the waters teem with swarms of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth in the open expanse of the heavens.” God created the great sea monsters and every living creature that moves, with which the waters swarmed after their kind, and every winged bird after its kind; and God saw that it was good. 

Day 6: Land Animals and Humanity

  • God created land animals and then humans, giving humanity dominion over the earth. Let the earth bring forth living creatures after their kind: cattle and creeping things and beasts of the earthafter their kind” And it was so.  God made the beasts of the earth after their kind, and the cattle after their kind, and everything that creeps on the ground after its kind; and God saw that it was good.

Following this, we have humanity being created. If the narrative upholds a hierarchy, creeping things would have a superior position in the order. This would preserve the integrity of creation, would it not? I would say that the argument that man is superior to woman cannot be established in a logical order, nor can this passage be used to establish that.

The reason for creating Gen 2:18 “It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make him a helpersuitable for him” (see the article to follow, ‘Helper – is not the little woman indoors’). 

At this stage, you should recall the Genesis text that states, “it is not good for mankind to be alone”, followed by the reordering of Adamah and the creation of male and female. The reason for this is readily apparent if we view the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as God, in whom mankind is created in the image and likeness of God. Humanity could not be alone in expressing God, who is in continuous community. 

Simply put, there will always be a need for more than one person to reflect God. 

If we view God hierarchically, this aloneness is not apparent; however, from a Trinitarian perspective, God is never alone, always in a state of Divine community. Therefore, mankind could never be a single being but must be a community, not only of creation but a community of the same essence. One could say that God thought, “Adamah does not reflect the Godhead; there must be more than one to do so”. Alone, singularity is not within the Divine shape. Unfortunately, over the years, I have come across the suggestion that God brought animals to Adamah to see if any was suitable. This is ridiculous. Do you not think God would know that there is nothing suitable? It was not a trial to see if anything fits. God is God! If nothing else, the animals, etc., are not the same substance-essence as Adamah in creation; there could never have been intimate relationships across different substances-essence. Animals were formed from a word spoken, “Let there be”, whereas for humanity it was different. God took clay and “formed” it, moulded, shaped, then breathed the breath of God into the clay, a different substance-essence to all other created forms, a union of Earth and God in the breath, God’s intent that humanity and God would be a demonstration of Heaven (domain of God) and Earth (domain of created humanity) together. A union of both heaven and earth. One may say that it was an eschatological creation, displaying God’s aim of a mature humanity and bringing about the union of both the seen and unseen realms. 

Established image and likeness to be seen in a community.    

Rib 

Another consideration: I was always instructed that the first principle of biblical interpretation is ‘let the scripture interpret the scripture’. That is, if an idea or premise is outlined, find where else it appears, where else the words are used in scripture, and what light is shed on the ideas or the use of words.   

To keep this interpretative practice regarding the word “rib”, consider where else it is used. Unfortunately, the word has been utilised to strengthen the subordinate position of women under men. We suggest having just a ‘rib” in view. God took a small bone from the rib cage of man to create woman, and woman is quite often seen as lesser because of this. Then it is said that this indicates that a woman needs to be under the arm of a man, protected and, at worst, subservient to men. However, on reading the scripture, even Adam gives us an insight. After the reconfiguration of Adam as humanity, Adam came forth and declared that woman is more than a rib-bone in Gen 2:23. The man said, “This is now bone of my bones, And flesh of my flesh; She shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of humanity (Adamah).” That is, Adam said she is more than just bone but has my flesh (1320 בָּשָׂר [basar /baw·sawr/] translates as “flesh” 256 times, “body” twice, “fatfleshed + 1277” twice, “leanfleshed + 1851” twice, “kin” twice, “leanfleshed + 7534” once, “mankind + 376” once, “myself” once, “nakedness” once, and “skin” once. 1 flesh. 1a of the body. 1a1 of humans. 1a2 of animals. 1b the body itself. 1c male organ of generation (euphemism). 1d kindred, blood-relations. 1e flesh as frail or erring (man against God). 1f all living things. 1g animals. 1h mankind).

Now for a note from a good friend, a Hebrew student and scholar, John Mastrogiovanni, which helps to see something more clearly, considering the Hebrew has certainly assisted here:

Remember the phrase, as usually translated, “And Adam said: ‘This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh…? There’s a Hebrew word, in some cases completely messing, or at best loosely translated, הפעם (ha’pa’am), meaning to keep time or strike a rhythm, as in the rhythm of the hoofs of a running horse [Ancient Hebrew Lexicon]. 

This is the root word for “bell” as in the striking of an instrument, the steps of the feet, etc. In that moment, it’s revealed that both the masculine and feminine qualities are to beat (like a heart) in rhythm with each other. The rhythm is described literally as “bone of my bones, flesh of my flesh”. It’s not just the issue of bones and flesh, but the cadence of the words.

The collective Creature, Adam, prior to the rib incident, had a greater sense of egoism than consciousness of the feminine. 

For example, throughout Genesis 1, after every point of creation, it concludes with “And God saw it was good.”

In Hebrew, the word טוב, good, doesn’t just mean good, but “functioning according to design.” However! When God finishes “The Adam”, which is God’s Image and Likeness, the balance and union of male and female qualities, the text says, as He looks at all lטוב, creation, it was very good, more literally it was “from the fiery embers (the מאד ego) is functioning according to design.”

When the masculine and feminine qualities are recognisably in balance, the ego functions properly, which is simply the Desire to Receive and Give.

However, something happens in Genesis 2.

17 “…but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.” 18 And the Lord God said, “It is not good that man should be alone…” NKJV

Note the phrase “not good” (not functioning according to…“ לבדו design), existing, The Adam, to him alone (a state of separation and perish)” 

The question is, what happened if in the first chapter all was very good, and now ‘The Adam’ is becoming “not good”? Quick answer: the ego was no longer in balance; the masculine and feminine qualities were out of balance. 

The ego progressed to the point of feeling alone and separated, which is a state of perishing (meaning the loss of one’s sense of identity).

You could say, The Adam – adamah wasn’t just self-aware, but now “selfishly aware”.

In Revelation 9:11, it says: And they had as king over them the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in Hebrew is Abaddon, but in Greek he has the name Apollyon. NKJV

The name of the king over the bottomless pit in Hebrew (same as in Genesis) is Aloneness (separation and perish).  The Greek word means the same, although it is often translated as destruction or destroyer as well.   

According to Ezekiel 28 and 31 the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil became egoistic through its awareness and became selfish; hence, out of balance.  The Adam, who was the keeper of the Garden, cultivated the Tree. Meaning, The Adam cultivated its egoistic awareness to the point of an imbalance. The feminine quality was no longer recognisable. Thus, God put The Adam in a deep sleep, removed The Adam’s rib and showed it the now dominant masculine quality.

In Hebrew, the word for “image” (as in “image and likeness”) is צלם, pronounced tselem. By letter definition in the Hebrew language, it means the image (or shadow) that reaches upward and flows like water. 

The word for rib in Hebrew is צלע, pronounced tsela. The only difference is a change in the last letter from the ם (mem) to the ע (ayin).   The letter ע (ayin) means eye or that which can be seen. 

By letter definition, it means the image (or shadow) that reaches upward and can be seen. God was presenting to the male (masculine) his feminine quality, thereby creating balance and restoring to being the Divine Image. 

Of course, we know how this story goes. The egoistic force of knowing good and evil (the Serpent) convinces the feminine to partake; however, something shifts. 

When confronted with what happened, the feminine tells the truth, while the masculine accuses both the feminine quality and the Creator of the predicament (Genesis 3:12).

The masculine affirms through its egoistic accusation, separation. 

On the other hand, the feminine did not accuse but told the truth as to why she ate. 

Thus, therein is the shift to the next phase of development. It’s after this The Adam’s state of separation through the masculine’s accusation, the feminine receives the name (Genesis 3:20),

(Chavah) in Greek, Zoe (not Eve). The word Eve isn’t used for the woman till ( חוה Genesis 4:1 (in the Greek Septuagint, why?).

Why? Because חוה (Chavah), as in all Hebrew words, is multifaceted. חוה (Chavah) means Life-giver, and message-bringer. 

Hence, the word Eve, is the root word for evangelism. 

But in Genesis 3:20 the word Zoe (not Eve) is used because she will bring forth (or birth) Eternal Life, the Christ. It’s in her birthing the Christ into the lower egoistic world, that balance is restored and our identity as the Divine Image and Likeness is seen.

An old Beatles song, I Need Somebody (Help), not just anybody (Help). You know I need someone 

We come to another word that requires examination, namely “Helper” or “help meet”, which is often used to convey the idea that she was man’s helper and inferior. However, upon examining the word ‘helper,’ we are in for a surprise.      

The word “helper” (the Hebrew is “ezer,” meaning help or helper) is the same word used of God; more often than not, it refers to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit – God. It appears 66 times in Scripture. This “ezer” (pronounced “ay-zer”) speaks of God’s strength, power, protection, help, and role as a rescuer. Therefore, to consider the word as a lesser help, as is often placed upon women, is not to consider its word usage and context within the Scripture. God is our helper, our help meet!   

A bit of a shock, not the ‘little women indoors’, far from it. Forgive me for saying it, but I’m just trying to show that it’s misused. Here, God adds to ‘ishah’ a very nature and character of God. You can see me in her, said God. Too often, the idea of a helper is someone less than the other, such as an unskilled worker who helps a skilled one, or someone less in status or education than the one being helped. Often, a woman’s role has been seen as subservient to that of a man. Not so in God’s created order. A woman is a helper, but so is God. (Exodus 18:4 – Eliezer; 1 Samuel 7:12 – a stone of help; John 14:16, 17 Holy Spirit; Psalm 46:1) 

It continues, the term “suitable” in the text derives from the Hebrew word “neged” (neh’-ghed), meaning “in front of, in sight of, opposite to” (Strong’s 5048). It also suggests that this “suitable” person is conspicuous, vigorous, a leader, and effective, and that they stand out boldly, explain, praise, expound, expose, plainly profess, report, tell, and utter.  

This uneventful word, “suitable”, doesn’t possess much class in itself, but when you look at the meaning God gave the woman, that changes everything! She was equal to him, his opposite, able to help, a companion, one who would speak up and advise, and one who would face life’s joys and sorrows together, completing each other. Each had a mind to think, a heart to feel, and a spirit that would live forever. Not a silent companion, a homemaker, but a gift to man with purpose.    If we do not grapple with this on male and female, we will always have dominant individuals within our structures, and generally, historically, it’s the male figure, which is not God’s ultimate goal.  Unfortunately, we are all subject to the translator’s culture, along with our own traditions, rather than what is found in the text.

It gets better. Look at the word helper. I will do so in another article for you.

How magnificent and powerful are males and females. Living, functioning and working together, men and women reflect and express the nature of God. To be honest, male and female, as individuals, are separate and alone, and they are incomplete in revealing God’s nature – Father, Son and Holy Spirit. It might be a true definition of humanity only when male and female are together, being fully human. This, I would say, is what Paul the apostle calls the mystery of marriage, a covenant expressing union; however, it’s not only marriage, but also society: every sphere is better off when men and women function together in harmony. 

Together, men and women reveal the nature of God and embody what it means to be human.

Both males and females have been entrusted with God’s goal and ultimate intention, namely that they reveal God’s nature and, together, fulfil His purpose.   Not a structure of one above and the other below, but corporate in every way.   Manifesting, mirroring the life in the Father, Son and Holy Spirit rather than the fallen condition of dominance and hierarchy.

We will not be able to bring about the completion of all things alone, nor can we steward the earth as custodians on God’s behalf. That Creation may be completed through man and woman in right relationship – Sons of God, creation groaning and mourning for us to stand 

The purpose of God is to represent the created order and to manage the earth in accordance with God’s will, a task that can be accomplished only together, as male and female.

It’s worth looking again at how humanity is to rule and work within the creation community, not to dominate or rape its wealth for sale, but to fulfil God’s desire.

Humanity, male and female, is entrusted to rule, serve, and advance the created world, not to dominate or be over one another. In fact, we are not to dominate in any way. Rereading Genesis 2, with an understanding of the words used, will further clarify how we are to fulfil our roles together. Isa and Ishaha, man and woman, are to steward the garden entrusted to them and to raise the first family (vv. 8-25).

Adam and Eve are not to be on top of the call, but going forth and multiplying, releasing children into maturity, brings about God’s ways, revealing God’s nature as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, enabling humanity to co-work with one another and co-labour with God, and to participate with God.

I will follow up on this with another blog soon on ‘Helper’ more fully, watch out for it.

Moving Ahead – A New Era: Engaging with Christ in a Changing World

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There was a time when life seemed straightforward. You worked hard, found a steady job, and, for many, stayed in that role for decades, reaping the rewards of stability and routine. But our world has changed. Recent events—most notably, the global pandemic—have shattered old certainties. Lockdown became a universal experience, though each nation responded differently. Some enforced it with military presence, others with appeals to maturity and responsibility. Regardless, we have all been thrust into what is now called “the new normal”—a reality none of us can fully define.

In the midst of this upheaval, I’m often asked, “What is God saying?” or “Was COVID-19 an end-time sign?” My answer is always the same: I refuse to manufacture a word from God just to fit in or soothe anxieties. Instead, I look to the New Testament and the early church’s response to crisis. When pestilence and persecution struck, their question was not, “Is this the end?” but, “What shall we do?” and “Whom shall we send?” Their focus was not on judgment, but on engagement—serving their communities in love.

I am encouraged by the stories emerging from this season: neighbours connecting, food banks multiplying, communities caring for the vulnerable. In the UK and beyond, we see glimpses of God’s kingdom breaking through as people ask, “What can I do?” and step into the needs around them.

Yet, let’s be honest. The world is changing at a dizzying pace. The old model of “one job, one reward” is fading. Flexibility, creativity, and curiosity are now essential. But will this season of isolation and reflection truly change us, or will we rush back to our old, consumer-driven habits as soon as possible? The images of smog-free cities and cleaner air are a stark reminder: change is possible, but only if we choose it.

Here’s the challenge: The “new normal” will only be different if we are different. If we do not allow Christ to transform us, we will simply rebuild the same hurried, disconnected world. True change begins with us—our hearts, our habits, our communities.

Many feel the frustration of being disconnected, especially those in rural areas with poor internet or limited resources. The longing for speed, connection, and purpose is real. But perhaps this is an invitation from God to slow down, to listen, and to rediscover what truly matters.

Statistics tell us that dissatisfaction is rampant. Billions are lost each year to disengagement at work; 70% of people in the UK say they are not engaged in their daily routines. What an opportunity for the people of God! The Church is called to be a community of purpose, engagement, and hope—a place where people find meaning and belonging.

But let’s ask ourselves honestly: Have we been truly engaging? Have our churches, ministries, and lives been compelling enough to draw people in, or have we settled for routine and comfort?

The Apostle Paul is a powerful example. Decades after his encounter with Christ, he stood before King Agrippa and testified, “I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision.” Paul’s engagement with Christ was not a one-time event; it was a lifelong pursuit. His passion and purpose were contagious—so much so that Agrippa said, “You almost persuade me to become a Christian.”

Are we still living in the wonder of our first encounter with Christ? Is our faith alive enough to engage others? Or have disappointment, hurt, and routine dulled our passion?

It’s easy to look outward—attending conferences, following leaders, seeking inspiration from others. But true engagement starts within. It is rooted in a living relationship with the risen Christ, a daily “yes” to His call, and a willingness to let Him shape our culture and community.

Culture is not a slogan or a vision statement. It is the life we live together, the atmosphere people encounter when they meet us. It requires everyone—young and old, male and female—to participate, to communicate, to shape and sustain it. This takes time, intentionality, and humility.

So here is the challenge: Will you allow Christ to re-engage your heart? Will you help build a community that is truly alive, welcoming, and purposeful? Will you choose to be part of the change, rather than a spectator?

Let us not waste this moment. Let us become a people who are engaged with Christ, engaged with one another, and engaged with the world He loves. May the “new normal” be marked by the presence of Jesus—transforming us, our communities, and our world.

Reflection:  

  • How has this season challenged your sense of purpose and engagement?  
  • In what ways is Christ inviting you to re-engage with Him and with others?  
  • What steps can you take today to help shape a Christ-centred culture in your community?

Let’s not settle for what was. Let’s press on to what could be—together, in Christ.

ReLaTiOnShIp – Connected by design.

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Quantum Entanglement is so part of you!

Now don’t switch off yet!

Ever heard of Quantum Entanglement? It’s a fascinating consideration, how everything is woven together by the creator.  A phaser that tries to grapple with the connectedness of us all and of the Diving in us.The interwoven way God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit weaved creation and themselves into creation.  Establishing that nothing is an island and alone, that all belong and how we are all part of the community of creation.

Quantum entanglement offers a fascinating glimpse into the mysterious, interconnected nature of creation. For Christians, it can serve as a powerful metaphor for the divine unity and spiritual connection that exists between God, God’s people, and all of creation. While entanglement belongs to the realm of physics, its principles can inspire deep spiritual reflection on the nature of relationships, faith, and divine presence.

The Mystery of Connection

In quantum theory, entanglement describes how two particles, once connected, remain mysteriously linked—no matter how far apart they are. When one particle’s state is known, the other’s state is instantly determined. This invisible bond transcends distance and time, defying human logic.

Similarly, Scripture reveals that believers are spiritually “entangled” with God through Christ. Paul writes,

“But whoever is united with the Lord is one with him in spirit.”
— 1 Corinthians 6:17 (NIV)

This union is not limited by physical space or human understanding. Just as entangled particles respond instantaneously to each other, so too are we intimately connected to God through His Spirit, no matter where we are.

Divine Correlation: The Unity of the Body

Entanglement also mirrors the unity of believers in the body of Christ. In the same way that entangled particles remain correlated, Christians share a spiritual bond that transcends geography and circumstance.

“For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.”
— Romans 12:4–5 (NIV)

When one believer rejoices, others share in that joy; when one suffers, others feel the pain (1 Corinthians 12:26). This is spiritual entanglement — a divine correlation that reflects God’s design for unity and love among His people.

The Presence Beyond Distance

Einstein called entanglement “spooky action at a distance.” Yet for the believer, God’s presence is precisely that — a holy mystery that transcends space and time. David marvelled at this truth:

“Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?”
— Psalm 139:7 (NIV)

No matter how far we wander, God’s Spirit remains entangled with ours. His communication is instantaneous, His awareness complete, His love unbroken.

Reflection: Living in Holy Entanglement

When we grasp that we are spiritually entangled with God and with one another, our perspective changes. Prayer becomes not a distant signal sent to heaven, but an immediate communion. Acts of love ripple through the body of Christ, affecting unseen hearts.

Just as scientists are still exploring the depths of quantum entanglement, we, too, are called to explore the depths of divine connection.

“That they may be one as we are one — I in them and you in me — so that they may be brought to complete unity.”
— John 17:22–23 (NIV)

A Devotional Prayer

Father,
Thank You for the mystery of Your creation that reflects Your divine nature. As particles remain connected across vast distances, so remind me that I am never apart from You. Help me live aware of my spiritual entanglement with You and with others — bound by love, guided by Your Spirit, and united in Your purpose.
Amen.

In the mystery of quantum entanglement, we glimpse a reflection of God’s eternal truth — that all things hold together in Christ (Colossians 1:17). The universe itself whispers of a Creator who binds all things in perfect unity.

Celebrating Difference Through the Gift of Language

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Genesis 11:6,7

6      The LORD said, “Behold, they are one people, and they all have the same language. And this is what they began to do, and now nothing which they purpose to do will be impossible for them. 

7      “Come, let Us go down and there confuse their language, so that they will not understand one another’s speech.” 

New American Standard Bible: 1995 update 

From the very beginning, language has been both a gift and a challenge. In Genesis 11, God observes the unity of humanity through a single language and, in response, confuses their speech at Babel—introducing diversity, but also the potential for misunderstanding. Language is fluid, living, and ever-adapting, yet it can also be a barrier, keeping us from truly understanding one another.

As disciples, we wrestle with ancient texts, seeking to understand words that were first spoken in Hebrew and Greek—languages rich with meaning, nuance, and culture. The challenge is not just academic; it’s deeply personal. We try to grasp not only what was said, but what was meant, and how it applies to our lives today.

Language is more than words; it is emotion, gesture, and identity. It is the sound of God moving among us, the Living Word that reveals Christ. Every language, from the Hebrew of Genesis to the 72 tongues spoken in Zambia (I am informed), is a reflection of the Creator’s creativity and love. No language is superior; each is a vital expression of culture and community.

Yet, language can also separate us. Misunderstandings—whether through words, assumptions, or silence—can breed division. Much of the breakdown we see in relationships, churches, and societies comes from failed communication, not from theological differences alone.

But language is also a bridge. It is the tool the Holy Spirit used at Pentecost, enabling people from every nation to hear the wonders of God in their own tongue. In Christ, the Alpha and Omega, every language finds its origin and purpose. We are called not just to speak the language of God, but to embody it—to be living letters, known and read by all.

My own journey—growing up speaking Welsh and learning English only at age ten, struggling with Portuguese in Brazil, and marvelling at the poetic greetings in Zambia—has shown me that language is both humbling and enriching. It reminds me that to truly celebrate someone different from myself, I must listen deeply, seek understanding, and value their unique way of seeing the world.

Forgiveness, humility, and a willingness to see from another’s perspective are essential. No human is above another; no language is above another. In Christ, we find not uniformity, but union—a rich tapestry of voices, each contributing to the beauty of God’s creation.

As we travel—across countries, cultures, or simply across the street—may we celebrate the differences that language reveals. May we become better translators of God’s love, building bridges rather than barriers, and discovering the fullness of Christ in every tongue.

Definition – “Gift of language” can refer to 
a natural talent for learning languages, a divine ability to speak and communicate, or the human capacity for symbolic thought and expression. It is often viewed as a powerful tool for understanding, creativity, and connection, though it can also be used for negative purposes. 

  • In the context of faith, particularly within Christianity, the “gift of language” can refer to a spiritual gift bestowed by the Holy Spirit.
  • This gift enables eloquent expression for preaching and teaching, fostering better understanding and dissemination of faith.
  • The Bible portrays language as a divine gift, used by God to create the world and given to humanity to communicate, think, and express creativity. 

Key Points to Celebrate Someone Different:

– Acknowledge: Their language, culture, and experience are a gift, not a threat.

– Listen: Seek to understand before seeking to be understood.

– Learn: Be open to new words, ideas, and perspectives.

– Embody: Live out the Word of God in action, not just speech.

– Unite: Celebrate diversity as a reflection of God’s creativity and desire for union.

Jesus is Alive and Available

/ 'face2face' - Gareth Duffty / Leave a comment

Encounter 

I do love the narrative of John 20, heralding all that goes on with “Now the first day of the week,” followed by meeting, mistaken identity, revelation and sending as the first sent one following the resurrection. 

It opens early in the day with a solitary female figure from a region called Magdalene, a fishing area derived from Aramaic (Semitic) Maghdela, a place on the Sea of Galilee, literally meaning “tower” (compare Hebrew migdal “tower,” from gadal “be great or high”). Then, in the late 1600s, it was used in the context of protection, but not originally. I will not get distracted by that, as it is not my aim today.

This Mary woke up early on Sunday morning at the tomb that now fills her experience, and she found it was empty. Turning around in confusion, she saw a gardener with questions. A voice broke into her world with familiarity, her name, perhaps saying in her mind, I know that voice.   

Being recognised, more than that, but hearing her name, she recognised him and exclaimed, “Rabboni!” (John 20:1-16).

The first word she uttered at that moment was not “Saviour” or “Lord”, but “Rabboni” (“my teacher”), with the emphasis on “My” — please note. 

Perhaps the realisation sparked the thought “MY”, Jesus is still mine, and I am still a disciple.

I have made my choice: you are the teacher in my life, the disciple of my being. Have I made that revelatory discovery that by living in the Image and Likeness of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, Jesus is my primary instructor? Building this pattern of God in my life, to be understood by all people and to reflect God’s ways and actions, this is my blueprint.

Blueprints of Creation 

I initially worked as a Building Surveyor early in my career, focusing on architecture and construction. Even today, I view buildings differently. I consider their design, aesthetics, shapes, and practical use.   

On this theme, I often wonder what Moses was given “to build according to the pattern” for the tabernacle. For many years, my life was surrounded by blueprints of buildings that guided the construction. Do I really think Moses had seen blueprints laid out on God’s table? I don’t think so; considering the tabernacle, its furniture, and its construction, I can only conclude it relates to Genesis and the creation. Each day is reflected in its furniture; for example, the seven days of creation correspond to seven items, with the first day, “Let there be light,” linked to a golden lampstand (menorah). 

On the second day, we observe the structure itself, the Firmament, with its screens and veils, which can be seen as representing the firmament that separated the waters — the laver being the sea waters breaking forth. 

On the third day, we find the bronze altar in the outer courtyard, used for sacrifices, which might correspond to the separation of the earth and seas. And so on.   

I suggest that Moses visited creation when he was given a pattern to follow, seeing God’s aim. That the blueprint was creation itself—Moses visiting the event and a pattern being instilled in him to refrain from building outside of it. Creation is the first temple; the tabernacle was merely a symbol of the building pattern of creation. The Tabernacle, therefore, is not just a physical structure but a symbolic representation of God’s creative work and a place for His people to encounter Him.   

At the resurrection, the first name given to Jesus—’My Jesus’—is Rabboni, meaning ‘My teacher’, and My disciples, My Life giver. 

The manner and words of Jesus should become our common sense, recognising that the living Word is meant to fill our minds, flow from our lips, and find a home in our hearts. Engage with and experience that the Word is alive, as God breathed the “breath of life” into us, just as he did with humanity at the beginning. 

Do not approach God’s Word as if it were academic writing, laws, or texts designed solely to restate a dry system of facts for regurgitation or passing an exam. 

The Word is to be encountered and to bring transformation.

Living Word

I remember in the science lab when I studied Biology, it was fascinating at 12 years old. We had to dissect animals. I recall cutting open frogs and mice; they were pinned down to a board. The exercise was to understand where the organs were, what they looked like, and everything was visible, but somehow a part of its essence had been lost—that is LIFE.

Similarly, when we consider the Word, remember that it is the living Word of God. We are called to pursue and experience it, not just a frog or mouse to be emptied.

What am I like today? What is the religious life we live? What is our life of faith? I pray we do not remove the life and the beauty from God’s Word. Asking people to eat what is dry and dead. That we don’t just cultivate arguments and theologies for position, but we hand life with life, we have a life to live and a more abundant life.

Here is a clash of the living Word, a question of Jesus from the Law came, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” (Luke 10:25-37). What a question — inheritance is about receiving, not what must I do to get it, I thought.

The Shema was quoted as saying, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” (Deuteronomy 6:4-5). Then the legalised officials pressed again, “And who is my neighbour?”

Jesus, through a story, illustrates the Word as a living entity, the living Word “judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).

What a Rabboni.

Jesus’ way of discipling and teaching was unique; he carefully wrapped truth in parables. Telling stories and narratives that reached the listener as he taught. To understand, you needed to grasp what was said to get all the essence out of the words. 

The Jesus way, Jesus revealed the heart of those who listened. They were simply stories or powerful, insightful instructions.

Jesus is stunning, and his ways are evolving. I love the titles of the late Eugene Peterson’s books on Jesus’ ways, such as ‘Eat this Book’, a way of taking in the living word that constantly challenges life.

Often Jesus taught from a seated, reclined repose, yet it makes you and still makes us stand up straight. (Matthew 5:1-2; Luke 4:20).

This same Jesus is available to you and me today. Rabboin, MY teacher, is available to us right now.

The risen Jesus—our Rabboni, our Teacher—is still alive and available to each of us. The same voice that called Mary by name calls us today, inviting us not merely to study His words but to live them. The living Word continues to breathe life into all who listen and follow.