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Command or Culture: Discerning the Difference
What is a command in the New Testament and what is merely cultural and not binding today?
History of Instrumental Music
Though the use of mechanical instruments of music in worship are common in both the Catholic and Protestant communities of "Christendom, " most people do not realize that this function was unknown to the churches of the apostolic age. Rather, the practice was an innovation that came centuries after the establishment of Christ’s church, and such was wholly without New Testament authority. Noted scholar William Woodson discusses this digression in this month’s Feature article.
The Two “Beasts” of Revelation 13
In Revelation 13, John sees a vision of two beasts—one arising from the sea, another from the earth. What do these images represent?
Times That Try Our Souls
Division “contrary to the doctrine” of Christ is wrong (Romans 16:17); but division, consistent with the Lord’s teaching, is not. Let faithful men and women work for a church that is united—but united upon the basis of biblical truth, not sectarian compromise (John 17:17).
1 Corinthians 6 – No Shield for Lawbreakers
A discussion of whether a Christian can appeal to civil law in a defense against another Christian
The Weekly Observance of the Lord’s Supper
Does the New Testament authorize the observance of each-Sunday communion? Is communion restricted to Sunday?
May One “Judge” Other Churches?
May one criticize the activities of a church of which he is not a member, without being guilty of judging?
The New Testament Pattern of Giving
Are there any binding ordinances for Christian giving in the New Testament?
The Divine Pattern of Acceptable Worship—Part 2
What is acceptable worship? This article is the second in a two-part series.
The Restoration of First-Century Christianity
Should we be trying to restore the New Testament pattern of Christianity? Or should we abandon the original ideal and modernize the church to keep up with the times?
Is the Restoration Plea Valid?
Perhaps the answer to a decline in Christianity is to restore the church as found in the New Testament.
News Story Focuses Spotlight on Aspects of Mormonism
The sensational news story regarding the return of the kidnapped Salt Lake City teen has caused public attention to be focused upon certain aspects of Mormon doctrine. This week’s Penpoints article highlights a couple of these issues.
Making Merchandise of the Gospel
The world is constantly looking for flaws in those who set themselves forth as teachers of the Christian cause. It is not uncommon to observe that some religious leaders have exploited the “gospel” for their own financial interests.
This brief article addresses this issue.
What Does the Bible Say About Ash Wednesday?
What is Lent and Ash Wednesday? Are these religious observances found in the Bible?
Take Heed Lest You Fall
Does the Bible teach that a Christian cannot ever fall away from grace?
What Is the Meaning of Ekklesia?
A new controversy: In recent years, it has become somewhat popular with some to dispute the meaning of the term ekklesia. Does the etymology of this Greek word in the New Testament have any relevance today? What does the word ekklesia mean?
Baby Dedication Ceremonies: Expediency or Innovation?
The practice of having “baby dedication” services is becoming increasingly popular within some churches of Christ? Is this ritual a mere expedient, or does it reflect an unwarranted innovation? This article addresses this growing controversy.
More Preaching on Baptism?
Does the church need more preaching on baptism? How does one determine balance in gospel preaching? Jason Jackson addresses this issue in this week’s Penpoints.
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.
The Folly of Following Polls
We have become a nation driven by polls. Polls are taken to determine practically everything—from what sort of food Americans prefer, to whether or not the president should be impeached.