Mark 11:20 – Jesus Curses a Fig Tree
Does Jesus’ cursing of the fig tree in Mark 11 reveal a “dark side” to the Savior? Not at all. Wayne Jackson explains this curious passage.
For the Joy that Lay before Him
Hebrews 12:1-2 sets forth the wonderful example of Christ to encourage us as we strive to “run the race.” May we ever follow in his path.
Effective Bible Study — An Urgent Need For Everyone
If the church of today was a more studious body, she would not be plagued with as many problems as she now encounters. Knowledge is a powerful antidote to error. Let us return to the thrilling adventures within the Word of God.
Did Christ Die as a “Sinner” upon the Cross?
Did Christ bear the “guilt” of human sin when he died on the cross? Or did he merely bear the “punishment” that was due us, as a consequence of our guilt?
That Mysterious Disciple
Does the case of a mysterious disciple in Mark 9 provide precedent for Christian fellowship with sectarian religious institutions?
Paul’s First Recorded Sermon
The first recorded sermon of Paul occurred in Antioch of Pisidia (see picture of historical ruins). Some were converted, many were not.
Are Preachers To Be Called “Reverend”?
Is the use of a clerical title, e.g., “Reverend,” “Father,” “Rabbi,” or “Doctor”—within the framework of religious service—consistent with the will of God? This week’s question discusses this issue.
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?
A Philosophy for Christian Living
The damaging effects of sin and the rigors of the Christian life can seem overwhelming. But in Philippians 3:13-14, the inspired apostle Paul sets forth an uplifting approach to life.
Buy a Sword?
When Jesus said, “Buy a sword,” what did he mean?
Did God Reward Midwives for Lying?
Did God reward the midwives who may have lied to Pharaoh, only to kill Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5 for the same infraction? Does God deal prejudicially with people? Does the Bible represent the Lord as an inconsistent, unfair God? Let’s take a close look at a question that speculates on the justice of God.
Do I Need to Be Re-baptized?
Should anyone ever be re-baptized? Some say no. But what do the scriptures say?
Before I Die: An Excerpt
Wayne Jackson’s recently published book, Before I Die — Paul’s Letters to Timothy and Titus, is receiving a popular response. The author has provided a sample from Paul’s final words to Timothy.
Can I Still Be Saved If I’ve Sinned Deliberately?
This article explores the meaning of Hebrews 10:26 and whether deliberate sin after becoming a Christian can lead to someone becoming lost. Wayne Jackson considers the context of the letter’s original recipients who were contemplating leaving Christianity and God’s willingness to forgive all sin.
Catholic Professor Protests
In 2003, we published a review of Dr. Thomas West’s book, Jesus and the Quest for Meaning. West is a Professor of Theology at the College of St. Catherine in St. Paul, Minnesota. In our review, we censured Professor West for his unorthodox ideas relative to the resurrection of Christ. The Professor has vigorously protested our essay. As a courtesy to him, we are publishing his letter of protest, and our response to the same.
Flesh and Blood Did Not Reveal It
Is there any evidence that Jesus really was the Son of God?
Why Was John the Baptist Confused?
Why did John the Baptist seem to doubt the identity of Jesus Christ?
Do the Dead Observe Earth’s Activities?
Are dead people able to view the activities of their loved ones who are still alive?
A Warning to a Wayward Church
Not all churches, even those belonging to Christ, are of equal quality. This is forcefully illustrated in Christ’s letter to the church in Laodicea.
While He Was Yet Speaking
How do you maintain your faith in the face of personal tragedy?