Illuminating the Bible

Illuminating the Bible Ancient Truth for Our Time

Absolutely! And, we are here to help!

The historical events of the Bible took place thousands of years before modern times and many of us live thousands of miles from the lands where these event took place. Sometimes, the peoples, cultures, and happenings in the Bible seem very strange to modern folks. Is it possible to build a bridge between our times and theirs in order to understand the Scriptures better? Our prayer is that you wil

l begin to find the answers you are seeking through the resources we provide. We are here to use archaeology, history, and nuances in the Scriptures themselves to shine a bright light on these timeless stories so you will understand the Bible better. We are glad you are here - Join us as we Illuminate the Bible!

John the Baptist confounding the Pharisees.
05/29/2026

John the Baptist confounding the Pharisees.

Copyright 2026 James L.. Barber, Ph.D. All rights reserved. ...

I hold in my hand a Herodian oil lamp from the time of Jesus of Nazareth. This was the "flashlight" and "candle" so comm...
05/16/2026

I hold in my hand a Herodian oil lamp from the time of Jesus of Nazareth. This was the "flashlight" and "candle" so common to the people of his culture.

Olive oil was poured into the circular hole in the top of the body of the lamp and a wick protruded through the smaller hole in the spout. Look closely and you will see the remains of soot from 20 centuries ago when this one was last lit!

Our Savior referred to lamps such as these to describe His desire for us to reflect His light upon the people around us. During Jesus' famous Sermon on the Mount, He told His listeners, "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." - Matthew 5:14–16

Once lit, this tiny object had such a mighty impact upon the darkness! May each of us likewise be such a light to our culture!

Please follow us at Illuminating the Bible, where we explore the Bible, its history, and the archaeology of the Bible lands! We believe you will be blessed along the journey!
Blessing,

Dr. James Barber

https://www.illuminatingthebible.org/
https://www.youtube.com/



Photo of Herodian lamp © 2026 James L. Barber, Ph.D.

The Bible is true.Faith in Jesus is reasonable.History and archaeology affirm these truths.Worship Him with your mind.
04/24/2026

The Bible is true.
Faith in Jesus is reasonable.
History and archaeology affirm these truths.
Worship Him with your mind.

Take One Small Step!

03/18/2026

(c) 2026 All rights reserved.Learn about John the Baptist living in the wilderness and baptizing people. ...

03/04/2026

Learn about Jesus by studying the book of Mark in the New Testament. ...

12/13/2025

© 2025 James L. Barber. All Rights Reserved.

11/30/2025
11/17/2025

Flintknapping Poorly Made Replica Projectile Points Approximating Artifacts from Khirbet el-Maqatir and Tel Shiloh.© 2025 James L. Barber. All Rights Reserved.

"When I bow down before you I am richer than all kings - In the doorway of my Father's house, I'm home." 
10/05/2025

"When I bow down before you I am richer than all kings - In the doorway of my Father's house, I'm home." 

Recorded in Dallas, Texas.From "Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs, Vol. 1"https://fanlink.to/PHS-LyricsHow lovely are Your dwelling placesYour Holy Spirit h...

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