D.H. Williams is professor of religion in patristics and historical theology at Baylor University and the author of Retrieving the Tradition and Renewing Evangelicalism. The following is an excerpt from Matthew: Interpreted by Early Christian Commentators, part of The Church’s Bible commentary series. It features the reflections of Gregory of Nyssa and Augustine on…

According to Western liturgical tradition, February 21st is Shrove Tuesday, also known as Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras, Carnival, or (if you’re Polish or simply fond of giant jelly donuts) Paczki Day. It marks one last day for liturgical Christians to revel in the “pleasures of the flesh” before they descend…

Need to add some pep to your Bible study? Here are 7 different step-by-step Bible study methods you can easily do on your own. We took these methods straight out of the Open Bible Study Notes (KJV and NJKV version!). They are a sure-fire way to get your study of…

When Naomi tells Ruth to leave, Ruth’s defiance is blatant. She will not leave. But what are we supposed to take away from this first chapter of Ruth? Read this exegetical study from the Kregel Exegetical Library Series. And, at the end, you’ll find a resourceful “Message and Application” section.…

The New International Commentary of the Old and New Testament is a rich, academic resource for studying the Bible. Published by Eerdmans, this set contains scholarship from well-known theologians. Olive Tree is proud to make this commentary available inside the app, making it incredibly easy to use. If you’re wondering…

But how exactly did Jesus come to earth? This season of anticipation of Christ’s coming, or Advent, is celebrated in the weeks leading up to Christmas. You’ve most likely heard about the virgin birth, but let’s take it a step further. Read these excerpts from the CSB Baker Illustrated Study…