Bible Times

Charles Dickens referred to the parable of the prodigal son as the greatest story ever written. He has not stood alone in that sentiment. For generations this brief parable, as told by Jesus Christ, has been not only familiar but captivating to its readers. Perhaps what makes this story so intriguing is the way so many of us can identify with the younger son, who rebelled against his father only to realize later the gravity of his mistakes.

One of the most controversial statements in the New Testament concerns the virgin conception and subsequent birth of Jesus, a conception in which man had no part. It's recorded that a virgin conceived a son without the aid of man, then secretly and without effort gave birth to her conception. This is the foundation upon which all Christendom rests. The Christian world is asked to believe this story, for man must believe the unbelievable to fully express the greatness that he is.

Jesus is probably the most controversial person that has ever lived. You either love Him and what He stood for, or you hate Him, and all He stands for. What decision have you already made or are thinking about making? I think the next most controversial thing in history is the cross. Men have died for it, wars have been fought over it, and history cannot deny it. The symbol of that cross on that ugly hill has been woven into the fabric and the memory of the world.