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Since its release in 2001, the English Standard Version of the Bible has gained popularity. We reviewed the ESV several years back and gave it commendation. Last year the ESV Study Bible appeared. While the study tools frequently are helpful, there are numerous danger spots characterized by doctr...
What a thrilling concept it is to transition from being a stranger to becoming a citizen, indeed, a family member and a “friend.” Our Lord once said: “You are my friends if you do the things which I command you” (John 15:14).
When the plan of salvation is so easy to understand, why do some go to such great lengths to obscure it?
Does the fact that God did not require water baptism for the remission of sins under the Mosaic system indicate that baptism must not be obligatory under the New Covenant? Does this compromise the Lord’s “immutability”? Study the question with us.
Is the Holy Spirit, as a divine Being, worthy of our worship? What do the Scriptures teach on this vital theme? Carefully and prayerfully study this subject with us.
Were those disciples who were immersed by John the Baptizer required to be re-immersed on the Day of Pentecost or thereafter? Some sincere Bible students maintain they were, but will the evidence really support that view?
Shortly before his arrest and death, Jesus taught his disciples by means of a beautiful allegory, that of the “vine” and the “branches.” Study this wonderful illustration with us.
Baptism is a very important rite in the divine scheme of salvation. But it is imperative that one be able to distinguish between the “essential” and “nonessential” items associated with the command. Study this matter with us in this week’s Penpoints.
What about the terms “Godhead” and “Trinity”? Is it appropriate to use these words? Do they represent biblical ideas? Study this issue with us in this week’s Q&A session.
The appellation of “Christian” is widely used as a category of people. But who, in fact, is (and who is not) a Christian?
The Lord expects his disciples to demonstrate a loving disposition, while, at the same time, defending the truth vigorously. All of us to some extent, have made errors in both of these areas. And sometimes, we do more harm than good when attempting to defend truth with incorrect reasoning. This i...
What is the “one baptism” of Ephesians 4:5?
A controversial question is whether women should be used as translators in the public worship assembly. Some, who would object to the modern practice of women leading public worship, have no problem in using a female translator. Others object to the practice. Carefully study this question with an...
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 we...
As a general rule, we refrain from commenting on specific problems congregations or individuals may be having. Regardless, I must say that an individual who teaches what this question represents is incorrect in their views regarding Christ and the Holy Spirit. Let us consider each of the proposit...
Does the church need more preaching on baptism? How does one determine balance in gospel preaching? Jason Jackson addresses this issue in this week’s Penpoints.
In 1992, Harold Camping, radio preacher out of Oakland, California, “prophesied” that history would end in 1994. It didn’t. Now, he is suggesting that the “great tribulation” is upon us, and all Christians should abandon the church. Read this review of the gentleman’s latest theory.
What does this puzzling passage mean? As with any troubling or difficult passage, we must first understand the context to better grasp what the author means. Proverbs 31 begins as follows: “The words of King Lemuel. An oracle that his mother taught him” (v. 1). What did the king’s mother teach hi...
Are we baptized in the Spirit or in water?
Exactly what is “baptismal regeneration”? Is this doctrine scriptural?