A sincere lady lives in terror because she fears that she is lost and cannot find peace of mind.

A study of church discipline, especially the ultimate act of withdrawal of fellowship

Several questions and comments have been recently received relative to some of our material dealing with the purpose of “water baptism,” as that theme is set forth in the New Testament. Accordingly, in this Feature article, we wish to address a reader’s obviously sincere concerns.

Since its release in 2001, the English Standard Version of the Bible has gained popularity. We reviewed the ESV several years back and gave it commendation. Last year the ESV Study Bible appeared. While the study tools frequently are helpful, there are numerous danger spots characterized by doctrinal error. Those using this edition should be informed.

According to the doctrine of dispensational premillennialism (a view endorsed by many today), the “church” was not a part of the divine plan of redemption initially. But that view is not consistent with divine revelation.

Do the signs of Matthew 24:3ff pertain to the impending destruction of Jerusalem, or do they depict conditions near the end of time? Some allege that Matthew 24:21 prohibits an interpretation that focuses upon Jerusalem’s destruction in A.D. 70. Wayne Jackson responds to this objection.

Christians recognize that the New Testament Scriptures represent the body of sacred literature to which men are amenable today. But does that mean that we disregard the value of the Old Testament documents? Indeed not. These holy writings contribute to our spiritual well-being in a variety of ways. This week’s Penpoints explores some of these.

The belief that mankind is born with sin is without scriptural or logical foundation. Yet the teaching is quite common among denominationalists. The Lord’s church has been attacked for not upholding this ridiculous dogma.

Is it wrong to disagree about religious doctrine?

By observing the apostle Paul, Wendell Winkler identifies the traits that make a master preacher.

Does God need our service? If not, then why should humanity serve him?

The impact and influence of primitive Christianity must be explained in its supernatural origin.

Does the Bible teach that a Christian cannot ever fall away from grace?

We must try to master the art of forgiving—for others’ sake, and for our own.

A response to a challenge from a dishonest infidel

A recent news item regarding the Mormon doctrine of “proxy baptism” highlights the inconsistencies of the practice and is the subject of this week’s Penpoints.

Christianity has been the most benevolent influence in the history of the world. On occasion, even skeptics concede this truth.

When “Sick at Heart” wrote to “Dear Abby” concerning her loveless marriage, Abby directed her to seek a “spiritual advisor.” One such advisor wrote in with his perspective. Was it spiritual? For advice to be spiritual and beneficial, it must be scriptural. Jason Jackson challenges “Reverend” Norman L. Conaway’s claim to be providing spiritual advice.

A failure to understand the real distinction between the Old and New Covenants underlies a host of religious errors.

A sincere Bible student feels that the Greek translation of the Old Testament, the Septuagint, provides evidence that the Greek term bapto may signify the actions of either sprinkling or pouring, as a baptismal rite. What does the evidence actually reveal?