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.

The Bible speaks of humankind as being in the “image” of God (Gen. 1:26). In what sense is the term, “image,” employed in this text?

How is Christianity different than religions that worship several gods?

In this article, Jason Jackson considers the divine imperative, “Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself up for it” (Eph. 5:25). A husband, living like God wants him to live, will learn to love his wife according to Christ’s example, giving himself selflessly for her spiritual needs. That is agape — a Christian husband’s eternally rewarding obligation.

How do atheists determine what is moral or immoral? While they frequently claim there is a “standard,” closer examination reveals that the name of the game is “make up your own rules.”

On May 17, 2009, President Obama called for a sensible debate on abortion during his commencement speech at Notre Dame University. However, when he was asked directly, “At what point does a baby get human rights?” by Rick Warren, the President ducked with the best of them: “that question with specificity, you know, is above my pay grade.”

What is the difference between a soul and a spirit in the Bible?

Some claim that Matthew’s Gospel record (12:1-4) provides biblical precedent for the philosophy of situation ethics. They are wrong.

Is the Old Testament account of Jonah a myth or a credible recording of actual events? Some point to alleged inaccuracies to claim the account is a fable.

This article discusses the growing inclination toward physician-assisted suicide.

Does the biblical evidence support John D. Crossan’s claims that Jesus was not virginally conceived?

What made Jesus the greatest teacher of all time? Wayne Jackson discusses the unique and profound way Jesus Christ spoke and taught, emphasizing his divine authority, wisdom, and the enduring impact of his words.

Exactly what is “baptismal regeneration”? Is this doctrine scriptural?

In recent years more-and-more “sex experts” are defending the vile practice of adult-child sexual relationships. This is but another symptom of the degenerating morality of American society.

Divorce and remarriage are serious moral issues. The law of God, as made known in the New Testament, is the standard of truth that regulates the institution of marriage. The Christian must seek to determine the will of God in times of marital difficulty, neither binding nor loosing where the Lord has not. This article discusses the relationship of divine and civil law to the institution of marriage.

When we are suffering, is God really watching over us? Does he really care?

A discussion of the so-called vestigial organs

The Mosaic system was preparatory to the coming of the Christian system. While the two systems were complimentary, there are significant differences.

When Peter refrained from association with the Gentiles at Antioch, Paul declared that he “stood condemned.” Does this mean that, at least potentially, Peter could have been lost? Study this intriguing issue with us.

Marriage is not a mere civil institution; it is a covenant agreement between two eligible people before God. Far too frequently, it becomes very “uncivil.” People who desire to please the Creator, will work hard to make their
marriages stable.