Our Eternal Abode
Will heaven be on earth as some have speculated? Or is their biblical evidence that heaven will be something apart from the physical planet on which we live.
Acts 15:9 — Hearts Cleansed by Faith
Some religious folks assume that this passage teaches that salvation is given upon the basis of faith alone — without additional acts of obedience. This is a tragic mistake.
2 Corinthians 2:6 – The Sufficient Punishment
The divinely prescribed method of church discipline is effective.
1 Peter 1:3,4 – The Heavenly Hope
Where is the hope of the righteous to be eternally realized — on earth or in heaven? The Bible’s answer is very clear.
Did Mary, Jesus’ Mother, Ever Sin?
Did the mother of Jesus ever sin?
Haggai 1:6 – A Bag with Holes
The Old Testament prophet Haggai instructs us on what is really important — and what is not.
Jehovah’s Witnesses and Blood Transfusions
Are blood transfusions a violation of God’s law? The “Jehovah’s Witnesses” claim they are. Many cases can be documented that demonstrate that the “Witnesses” have allowed family members to die, rather than save their lives with blood transfusions. Read this article regarding this controversial issue.
What About Jephthah’s Vow?
What about Jephthah’s vow, as mentioned in the book of Judges? Did he sacrifice his daughter? Or did he commit her to a life of service as a virgin? Good scholars have disagreed on this issue. What are the arguments, pro and con?
Language Keys that Unlocked the Past
Archaeology, time and time again, has confirmed the accuracy and reliability of the Bible as a historical document.
Did the Nile River Really Turn to Blood?
During the plagues that were visited upon Egypt, prior to Israel’s departure from that land, did the Nile River actually turn to blood, or was this merely a silting of the river with red clay?
That Mysterious Disciple
Does the case of a mysterious disciple in Mark 9 provide precedent for Christian fellowship with sectarian religious institutions?
Lessons Learned Through Illness
There are several ways in which one may respond to illness. One is to try and learn from the experience and attempt to develop into a better person. Another is to become bitter and “sour” on life, making others around you miserable. The former is much to be preferred. Reflect with me on this matter.
What About Social Drinking and the Old Testament?
Does the Old Testament provide precedent for “social” drinking today?
A Tribute to a Nameless Widow
Jesus once observed a poor widow contributing into the treasury of the Jewish temple. This incident is twice recorded in the Gospel records. Of what significance is this narrative? Study this fascinating account in this week’s Penpoints.
Corinth – A Troubled Church
The church in Corinth had numerous spiritual problems, one of which was its tolerance of flagrant immorality. In his letter to this church, the apostle delivers a sharp rebuke. Happily, it produce a healthy result.
Matthew 25:41 – “Jehovah’s Witnesses” and Hell
“Jehovah’s Witnesses” contend that the term “Hell,” as used in the Bible, is a “symbol of annihilation or everlasting death in unconsciousness” from which there is to be no awakening (Make Sure of All Things, p. 155). Does this represent the truth of biblical teaching regarding Hell?
Amos 1:1-2:3 — Judgment upon the Nations
The judgment pronounced on pagan nations by Amos the prophet point to the accountability of all people to the laws of God.
Luke 11:13 — Asking for the Holy Spirit
The Scriptures do not teach, here nor elsewhere, that the Lord, in answer to prayer, supernaturally infuses His children with the Holy Spirit.
Ezekiel 12:13 — The Blind Ruler
The prophet Ezekiel accurately prophesied the details of the capture of the king of Israel.
Reflections on the Pope
Is the New Testament information regarding Peter consistent with the image of the pope? Do the Scriptures teach that the church of Jesus Christ was founded upon the apostle Peter?