Welcome

Welcome to As It Was Written, a space dedicated to exploring the rich tapestry of religious history through a non-denominational Judeo-Christian lens. As an author and researcher, I’m thrilled to share this platform with you, where we can delve into the historical, linguistic, and theological questions that shape our understanding of the Bible and its enduring relevance. This website serves as a hub for my work and a resource for those who, like me, are captivated by the complexities of biblical texts and their intersections with history and modern thought. Whether you’re a scholar, a student, or simply curious, I invite you to explore the following sections, each designed to inform, challenge, and inspire:

Author’s Books:

  1. Beyond the Beginning: Biblical Creation and Modern Cosmology
  2. Genesis II: Recovering Its Original Meaning
  3. Meeting Jesus Again For The First Time

Each book tackles provocative questions about creation, scripture, and the life of Jesus, grounded in rigorous research and accessible to thoughtful readers. Visit this section to explore book summaries and learn more about their historical and theological insights.

Biblical Research: Dive into my published research, including three articles currently available on Academia.edu. These reports examine key controversies in biblical studies, offering fresh perspectives on texts and traditions that have shaped Judeo-Christian thought for centuries.

Bible Courses: Interested in deepening your knowledge? This section outlines courses and lectures I offer, complete with syllabi and prerequisites, designed to guide you through the historical and theological nuances of scripture. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned learner, there’s a course for you.

Forum: Join our community discussion. Here you can engage with others, ask questions, and share insights about biblical history and theology. This is a place for respectful, thoughtful dialogue.

Previews: Get a sneak peek at my forthcoming historical fiction novel, tentatively titled Now I Know You Fear Me, which traces Abraham’s journey from his birth in Ur to his pivotal moment of justification in Genesis 22:12. Expected in spring 2026, this book promises a vivid retelling of a foundational biblical story that is, nevertheless, faithful to Holy Scripture.

About: Learn more about my background as a Christian author committed to non-denominational scholarship, and find out how to connect with me for inquiries or discussions.

This blog will be a space for updates, reflections, and deeper dives into the topics covered across the site. Expect posts on biblical scholarship, book updates, course offerings, and more, all written with the same curiosity and rigor that define my books. Thank you for visiting As It Was Written. I hope you’ll find this site a valuable resource for exploring the Bible’s historical and theological depths. Stay tuned for more posts, and feel free to join the conversation in the Forum or reach out via the About page.

In faith and inquiry,
M. T. Peterson

 

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What Does Born Again Mean

What did Jews of the early first century CE understand the phrase “born again” to mean? Many evangelical Christians today believe that being “born again” refers to a one-time moment when a person accepts Jesus as their savior. But is this how the phrase would have been understood in its Jewish context? I have some thoughts expressed in the link below.

What Did Jesus Mean By “Born Again?”

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What Exactly Is the “Kingdom” of God?

The Kingdom of God/Heaven

The word “kingdom” is a very common and important word in the Bible. Its use is probably most familiar to Christians from Jesus’ announcements that the Kingdom of God is near, or words to that effect. However, in the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) and especially in the Psalms, this word took on a much different, though related meaning. The alternate, and more accurate meaning is presented in the following essay:

As It Was Written: The Kingdom of God

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The Bible and Parenting

The Bible and Parenting

God has an abundance of good advice for parents. Advice that, when properly understood, is priceless. However, many of these texts have been corrupted by time and eisegesis – adding what we think God meant according to our understanding. In these writings, I apply some much needed corrective.

As It Was Written: Corporal Punishment

As It Was Written: What To Teach Your Child

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