The Alisa Childers Podcast cover image

The Alisa Childers Podcast

The Sabbatical Series: 3 Christian Urban Legends That Need to Die

Jan 4, 2024
In this podcast, the host debunks three Christian urban legends, including the true meaning of 'Abba' and St. Francis of Assisi's famous quote. They also challenge the ideas of preaching without words and clarify the importance of verbal communication. Lastly, the podcast explores the historical truth behind Peter's crucifixion and his steadfastness in testifying about Jesus' resurrection.
09:00

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The translation of the Aramaic word 'Abba' used by Jesus to address God as 'daddy' or 'papa' is a misconception; the correct translation is 'dear father' or 'dearest father', signifying intimacy and reverence.
  • The famous quote often attributed to St. Francis, 'Preach the gospel at all times, when necessary use words,' is a Christian urban legend; St. Francis emphasized the importance of both living out the gospel through deeds and using words to spread Jesus' teachings.

Deep dives

Misconception about the word Abba

One common misconception in Christianity is the belief that the Aramaic word 'Abba' used by Jesus to address God means 'daddy' or 'papa.' However, this is not true. The best translation for Abba is 'dear father' or 'dearest father.' It captures the warm confidence and deep reverence we have for our father in heaven, expressing intimacy while preserving God's dignity. The misconception originated from a 1971 text by New Testament scholar Joachim Jeremias, who suggested Abba was a children's word or a diminutive of baby talk, despite criticism from other scholars. Jesus showed us that we can have a loving and intimate relationship with God as his sons and daughters, a revolutionary idea in the ancient world.

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