The Me-First Syndrome
It seems that everyone these days is afflicted with a “syndrome.” Though that term is considerably overused and misused, there are some spiritual maladies that might appropriately be called a “syndrome.” In this article we address one of these.
Mark 11:20 – Jesus Curses a Fig Tree
Does Jesus’ cursing of the fig tree in Mark 11 reveal a “dark side” to the Savior? Not at all. Wayne Jackson explains this curious passage.
The Dynamics of the Doxology
A “doxology” is an eruption of praise offered to deity. It glorifies God and is a commentary on the piety of the dedicated soul. Study this topic with us in this week’s Penpoints article.
A Rose Is a Rose; Or Is It?
One dirty little trick used to confuse sincere people about the purpose of baptism.
What Is the Gift of the Holy Spirit in Acts 2:38?
The expression “the gift of the Holy Spirit” in Acts 2:38 has long been a matter of interest and discussion among the people of God.
Logic and Stem Cell Research
Human embryos should not be created whimsically, nor should they be destroyed.
Should Women Function as Translators in the Assembly?
A controversial question is whether women should be used as translators in the public worship assembly. Some, who would object to the modern practice of women leading public worship, have no problem in using a female translator. Others object to the practice. Carefully study this question with an open mind. Let God’s word be our guide during this study.
National Security — The Real Solution
How can we secure the future of our nation? What is the solution to homeland security?
Matthew’s Account of the Virgin Birth
Matthew records eleven arguments establishing the virgin birth of Christ — an important doctrine related to Jesus’ divine nature.
The Righteous Shall Live by Faith
The declaration, “The righteous shall live by faith,” is found several times in the Bible. What is the significance of the expression? This essay explores this issue.
Some Contrasts Between the Nature of the Mosaic System and Christianity
The Mosaic system was preparatory to the coming of the Christian system. While the two systems were complimentary, there are significant differences.
What Is the Eternal Sin?
Jesus once spoke of an “eternal” sin, for which there is no forgiveness. What was that sin? Can it be committed today?
What Does “Makes Her an Adulteress” Mean?
Whenever folks discuss Christ’s restrictions on marriage and divorce, this question frequently arises. What is the meaning of the phrase “makes her an adulteress” in Matthew 5:32? Wayne Jackson answers this question.
The Authority of Jesus Christ
Authority is one of those words that usually creates an instant emotional reaction—in some folks, fear and distrust, in others safety and order. While Jesus was the image of love and gentleness, he also possesses and exercises great authority.
1 Timothy 1:20 – Delivered unto Satan
What does Paul mean when he stated that he had delivered Hymenaeus and Alexander unto Satan? What great sin warranted this action?
Defending the Faith with a Broken Sword – Part 2
The Lord expects his disciples to demonstrate a loving disposition, while, at the same time, defending the truth vigorously. All of us to some extent, have made errors in both of these areas. And sometimes, we do more harm than good when attempting to defend truth with incorrect reasoning. This is part two in a three-part series, “Defending the Faith with a Broken Sword.”
While He Was Yet Speaking
How do you maintain your faith in the face of personal tragedy?
Stars: A Creation of Mass Production
The Psalmist affirmed that “the heavens declare the glory of God.” In this week’s Penpoints, Jason Jackson explores some of the wonders of the starry hosts that decorate the night skies.
The Baptist Church: An Historical Perspective
I grew up among kindly people of the Baptist affiliation. My father’s family was of this persuasion. A more gracious, benevolent group of folks could scarcely have been found. It was heartbreaking, therefore, to eventually discover that the church of my ancestry was unknown to the New Testament.
The Role of “Works” in God’s Plan of Redemption
Many sincere people labor under the illusion that “works” play no role whatever in Heaven’s plan of redemption? Is this a correct view? Actually, it is not. Study this theme with us in this week’s Penpoints article.