The Mandate for Christian Unity – A Study of Ephesians 4:1-6
Why is there so much religious diversity in the world—or even in the community of “Christendom”? Surely such is not the ideal will of God. Let us consider this theme most carefully.
Hard Sayings in the Bible
How does one account for some of those “hard sayings” in the Scriptures?
Holocaust: Why Did It Happen?, The
Civilized men lament the Holocaust (1933-45) as one of the darkest eras of modern history. There is, however, almost a conspiracy of historical silence—few journalists care to reflect upon just why Hitler and his associates perpetrated that infamous evil.
Teresa’s “Exorcism”
It was recently announced that Roman Catholic nun, Teresa, received an “exorcism” just before her death. What is the Christian to make of this?
Church Controversies
While there certainly are times when a preacher, teacher or church must be publicly censured, there are many cases where problems are dealt with in a less than expedient manner—and far too often with an ugly spirit of division. What are some principles that should guide our reaction to such controversial events?
Principles of Interpretation: The “Expansion” Concept
The scope of a biblical verse may be expanded by supplementary information on the same subject in related passages. An understanding of this hermeneutical principle would prevent many an error.
Does God Send Delusions? Can a Person Harden Himself Beyond Hope?
What does the Bible mean when it suggests that God may “send a strong delusion” to some people (2 Thes. 2:11)? Would the “God of truth” actually “send” a lie? Too, is it possible for a person to harden his heart to the extent that he is beyond the hope of salvation?
Baptism: Essentials and Nonessentials
Baptism is a very important rite in the divine scheme of salvation. But it is imperative that one be able to distinguish between the “essential” and “nonessential” items associated with the command. Study this matter with us in this week’s Penpoints.
Was Jesus “Gruff” and “Explosive”?
Sometimes well-meaning writers attribute to Christ incorrect attitudes or actions. We must be careful not to do that. Let us look carefully at this important issue.
Manufacturing “Slave Babies”
Recent polls indicate that many Americans have no objection to the production of “designer children” from which to extract needed materials for the use of others. In the process numerous, innocent, unborn children will be sacrificed. Has our nation lost her conscience?
The Dangers of Youthful Exuberance
The apostle Paul taught Timothy how to conduct himself as a young gospel preacher—advice sorely needed today and in every generation.
2 Peter 1:8 – Conditional Salvation
Faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love are all qualities the apostle Peter identifies as qualifying one’s salvation.
What About That “a god” Translation in the Jehovah’s Witness Bible?
Why does the Jehovah’s Witness’ Bible render John 1:1 as, “the Word was a god”?
A Historian’s Assessment of Ancient Christianity
Edward Gibbon’s monumental work of history provides great insight into early Christianity.
The Christian and Bribery
Biblical ethics would never allow the faithful Christians to engage in practices commonly known as bribery.
Romans 1:20 – The Testimony of Creation
As the inspired Paul affirms to the Romans, the natural world around us points to the existence and attributes of the Creator.
The Pain of Lingering Regrets
Every sensitive soul is troubled from time to time by regrets that linger regarding past deeds in his life. There is a wrong way and a right way to deal with regret. Think about this matter with us in this week’s Penpoints article.
Jehovah’s Witnesses and Armageddon
The “Jehovah’s Witness” view of the “battle of Armageddon” is but one example of the ineptness of this group to analyze biblical prophecy.
The New Slavery
Most everyone of the civilized nations finds the practice of human slavery abhorrent. The shocking fact is, however, slavery exists in profusion today, though it is scarcely recognized by most people. Read this engaging article on the “New Slavery.”
Islam and the Enemy
It has been charged that both Christianity and Islam are religions of violence. In this article, the teachings of these two systems, regarding how to treat one’s enemies, are laid side by side.