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.

Only the truth gives hope — real hope — and, as the American poet Wallace Rice put it, “hope is the patent medicine for disease, disaster, and sin.” In this article, Jason Jackson surveys several biblical expressions in which the word “hope” appears. These phrases teach us about the Christian’s future.

There have always been those who found the concept of the bodily resurrection incredible, i.e., unbelievable, and their modern counterparts are appearing increasingly—even in today’s church.

Sabbatarians contend that all of the Ten Commandments are binding today, including the requirement to “keep the Sabbath day holy.” They allege that if one argues that the Ten Commandments were abolished when Christ died, this would license all sorts of evil today. Is this argument sound? Wayne Jackson addresses this in this Q&A segment.

Some Jews adamantly deny that Jesus of Nazareth was the promised Messiah. They contend that the true Messiah is yet to come? Study this matter with us.

There is an interesting passage in the Jewish Talmud that mentions the death of Christ. Though written from a negative vantage point, it nonetheless constitutes a marvelous confirmation of the biblical record.

Shortly before his death, Christ informed his disciples that the Jewish temple would be destroyed, and not one stone would be left upon another. Some claim the prophecy failed. What are the facts?

What is the significance of the fish symbol?

Time and again the knowledge of modern science has “caught up” with that of the Scriptures. Learn how the scientific accuracy of this remarkable passage was confirmed over a century ago.

A question was submitted about the resurrection. The inquirer concluded that “made alive” (in passages like Romans 6:3-8 and Colossians 2:11-12) is parallel in thought to Paul’s discussion of the resurrection of the body in 1 Corinthians 15. In response, we consider a number of points concerning the New Testament doctrine on the resurrection.

Psalm 3 is a morning song of David during a difficult time in the king’s life. It is brief, but brimming with instruction and comfort.

The Islamic system is growing rapidly in America, and Christians need to familiarize themselves with the history and basic teachings of this religion.

The matter of “stewardship” is a vital biblical concept. The following study in contrast is one that challenges the sincere child of God.

What role does the nation of Israel play — past and present — in the plan of God? Does their illustrious past have any relevance today or in the future?

The National Geographic Society has once more attempted to capitalize upon the name of Jesus Christ by a promotion of the so-called “Gospel of Judas” in recent interviews, publications, etc. This controversy is much ado over nothing. In this article, Australian Christian scholar, Gary Young (Ph.D. in Roman history), puts this issue into its proper historical framework.

The Major Prophets represent the books of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, and Daniel.

In many ways, science has often been its own worst enemy. This article demonstrates that just because some idea is supported by “science” does not mean that it is infallible or believable.

What is the mysterious “Book of Jashar” referenced in the Old Testament?

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?