Bible Lens

Complement your study of the weekly Christian Science Quarterly® Bible Lessons with the Bible Lens from the Christian Science Sentinel. This pullout section of the Sentinel provides a helpful mix of information about Bible verses, including history, context, verse translations, and word definitions. Articles and poems are hand-picked to inspire further exploration of the Scriptures -- and to show how others have applied insights from their Bible study.

“The day of the Lord” is a major theme in the Hebrew Bible.

Soul and Body

Remnant occurs in several biblical texts, offering encouragement and comfort to God’s children in every circumstance.

Mortals and Immortals

For Christians, reconciliation came through the supreme sacrifice of Christ Jesus—and followers were to embrace it as a present reality.

Adam and Fallen Man

Believing in Jesus’ identity as the Son of God was—and continues to be—paramount to Christian experience. 

Everlasting Punishment

Moses’ words make plain that God’s covenant encompasses individuals of every rank.

Probation After Death

Elijah’s mantle, or cloak, symbolizes his spiritual authority.

Doctrine of Atonement

Sanctification includes both setting apart for a holy purpose and equipping with the qualities needed to accomplish it.
Love for God is expressed in love of others; love of others springs from God’s love for us.

Unreality

“The way” symbolizes a life lived in accord with the law or will of God.

Reality

Jesus’ quiet ministry diverged greatly from Messianic expectations of fiery judgment and reform. 

Matter

To the Hebrew people, God’s Word wasn’t simply a collection of messages but a living, dynamic power. 

Substance

Planting symbolizes faithfulness to Christly teaching; reaping represents the promised outcome of eternal life.