The Bible: Word of God or Mere Words of Men?
Is the Bible a divine document inspired of God? If so, to what degree? Is it merely in sense or in sentence? Are the very words of the text inspired?
Denominationalism: Permissible or Reprehensible?
Many folks within the domain of “Christendom” applaud the system of “denominationalism.” But does the “denominational” principle have the approval of Scripture?
The Philosophy of John Calvin
John Calvin was a tremendously influential person in Protestant history. But his Institutes reveals his philosophy towards the Holy Scriptures. Is this philosophy worthy of emulation?
Does the Holy Spirit’s “Searching the Mind of God” Disqualify Him as Divine?
Paul once wrote that the Holy Spirit “searches” the mind of God. Some have misused this text to suggest that the Spirit is not deity Himself. But the argument is invalid. Explore this issue with us.
1 Chronicles 2:13-15 – Jesse’s Sons
Some may jump to the conclusion that the Bible contradicts itself with regard to Jesse’s sons. But such a conclusion is not necessary.
Pass Over “The Passover Plot”
For some twenty centuries critics of the Bible have sought to discredit the scriptural narrative regarding the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. These efforts have all been characterized by a similarly frustrated and futile line of baseless argument. One such endeavor in recent decades was Hugh J. Schonfield’s infamous, The Passover Plot. In this weeks Penpoints, Jason Jackson reminds us of this anemic enterprise.
Life and Death Ethical Issues
In this world of technological achievement, the human family is confronted with numerous life-and-death decisions that are taxing indeed. Frequently we struggle with such issues. The Scriptures—divinely given and perpetually relevant—can guide us in these heart-rending decisions if we will seek their counsel.
The Triumphal Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem
On Sunday, before his crucifixion on Friday, Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem, riding on a donkey. The crowds worshipped him. What was the significance of the momentous event? Study this episode with us; it is rich with precious truths.
Was Judas “Predestined” to Betray Christ?
A sincere reader wants to know whether or not Judas was “predestined” to betray Christ. He feels that certain New Testament passages suggest that he was. This week’s Question discusses this issue.
How Did the Samaritan Woman Know About the Messiah?
A Samaritan woman told Jesus that she knew about the coming Messiah. How did this lady know this fact?
The Church Needs More Wise Guys
Many of life’s important lessons are found in the book of Proverbs. Although the basic truths contained therein are found elsewhere in the Bible, the Proverbs of Solomon are often vivid phrases that need to be memorized and recited when necessary. This study demonstrates the value of the book of Proverbs by looking at the opening statements of the book itself.
Building Character before the Concrete Sets
The time to work on your child’s character is when they are young, not old.
1 Kings 4:21 – Solomon’s Kingdom
Premillenialists, desperately clinging to the notion that the “land promise” to the Israelites is yet unfulfilled, disregard clear Bible testimony.
The Church Fathers: Benefits and Abuses
The writings of the so-called “Church Fathers” are valuable sources of information for that period known as the “post-apostolic” age. Unfortunately, the literature frequently is also abused.
2 Samuel 23:2 — Verbal Inspiration
In what sense is the Bible “inspired”? This passage affirms that the very words of the Bible are God’s.
John Kitto’s Beautiful Tribute to “Woman”
John Kitto was a remarkable Bible scholar of the 1800’s. His essay on “Woman,” penned in 1850, is a delightful composition in tribute to one of God’s finest creations.
The Music-Authority Issue—Again
In response to a recent article in which we argued that instrumental music in Christian worship is without divine authority, a critic replied by suggesting that we practice many things in Christianity that are bereft of authority. One example he cited was the use of Bible translations. In this week’s Penpoints, we refute this baseless quibble.
Does John 17:3 Negate the Deity of Christ?
A “Jehovah’s Witness” is upset at some of our articles that affirm the divine nature of Jesus Christ. He claims that John 17:3 negates the idea that Jesus is “God” in nature. This article responds to the gentleman’s charge.
Paul’s Experience on the Damascus Road
Recently we argued that God does not speak directly to people today; rather, he communicates his saving will through the Scriptures. A kind reader thinks that Paul’s experience on the Damascus road negates our conclusion. Jason Jackson responds.
Elijah, Prophet of Confrontation
Elijah was one of the great prophets of Old Testament history. Like all of us, he was a man of mixed qualities. Overall, he contributed significantly to the unfolding of Heaven’s plan of redemption.