Good afternoon from Livingston, Scotland

It’s the Ides of March (the 15th), the ominous day on which Julius Caesar was assassinated in 44 BC. Not a good day for him, but a good one for us. The sun is shining, the snow has melted (apart from the hilltops), life is good. We’re grateful for your interest in the International Bible Teaching Ministry, and hope this newsletter will prove to be a source of inspiration, learning, and growth.

In today’s edition:

  • Q&A 1634: How did women convert to Judaism in O.T. times?
  • Q&A 1635: Is Titus 3:5 really referring to baptism?
  • iFaith: the latest video sermon, from Matt 7:7-11
  • Women of Worth: podcast 2 (Vicki Jacoby)
  • “Jesus Loves Me” — the children’s song, adapted for seniors

How Did Women Become Jews in Ancient Times?

How were women converted to Judaism in ancient times, if they were not circumcised? I looked online and couldn't find anything.—M.H.

I suppose there are two separate questions: (1) How did women become Jews in the Old Testament? (2) How was this done in later times, like the time of Jesus? Click to continue reading: Q&A 1634.

Is Titus 3:5 Referring to Baptism?

Why can I be positive that apostle Paul, in Titus 3:5, is talking about baptism? He doesn't use the word "baptism" here. Couldn't someone argue that it's just a metaphor for the work of the Holy Spirit? — R.R.

Yes, someone could try to see a metaphor here, and in many other passages. But the understanding of most scholars and of the early church is that the washing in Titus 3:5 is the washing of John 3:5—in baptism. Let's look at the broader context. Click to continue reading: Q&A 1635.

Ask, Seek, Knock

The 19th message in a series of 26 on the Sermon on the Mount is now ready. To watch iFaith video sermon S, “Ask, Seek, Knock,” CLICK HERE.

Women of Worth

Vicki’s second podcast went live this morning. Women of Worth isn’t just a fresh look at scores of interesting biblical characters, but also a source of inspiration for daily Christian living. Listen now, or—better yet—sign up wherever you access your podcasts.

“Jesus Loves Me”—Senior Style

Most Christians are familiar with the children’s song, “Jesus loves me, this I know / For the Bible tells me so / Little ones to him belong / They are weak but he is strong.”

For a creative adaptation of the song for the rest of us—especially those getting on in years—click THIS LINK.

March Events

4-5—Athens Institute, UK-I: Old Testament Survey / Sunday sermon, Matt 6:9-13 — Watford, England
5, 12, 19, 26—Sunday sermons, John 4:43-5:47 — UK online group
8—Evidences lesson, Zoom — Zagreb, Croatia
11—Athens Institute, US (mainland) — New Testament Survey
19—Athens Institute graduation at North River (US, Madagascar, Australia) / Sunday sermon, Matt 5:33-37 — Marietta, GA
24-26—Family Group Leaders / NC & East GA Singles / Sunday sermon, Matt 6:9-15 — Fayetteville, NC

Thanks for your support

Next week I’m in the United States—Atlanta and Fayetteville (NC), and also visiting my uncle and aunt in Charlotte. I’ll write again from Athens (GA).

We appreciate our partnership and your support. Have a great week.

Yours in Christ,
Douglas