Mel Gibson’s motion picture, “The Passion of the Christ,” has ignited a storm of controversy, once again raising the question, “Who was responsible for the death of Jesus of Nazareth?” This week’s Penpoints explores this “hot” topic.

The New Testament records an episode where Jesus “cursed” a fig tree. Many people are disturbed with reference to this incident. What is the meaning behind this strange circumstance?

After the Jews had spent seventy years in Babylonian Captivity, Cyrus, king of Persia, issued a decree permitting them to return to their homeland. It was an amazing event in ancient history.

Some openly repudiate what they call “pattern theology.” The apostle Paul, however, did not.

In recent years much publicity has been given to certain “Bible codes” that are reputed to predict future events. Some even claim that these codes are evidence for the divine origin of the Scriptures. What are the facts? Wayne Jackson addresses this in this month’s Feature article.

One of the great scenes of Old Testament history is the exodus of Israel from Egyptian bondage. In this article, we wish to consider four aspects of this epochal event — the date of the exodus, the visitation of plagues upon Egypt, the passover, and the passage through the Red Sea.

In an era of great distress, President Franklin Roosevelt offered our nation some wise words of comfort. His sentiments were never more needed than now.

It is a noble and worthy challenge to love with the love that Jesus has for all mankind.

Your attitude toward the Scriptures determines how God’s Word will influence your life.

We must try to master the art of forgiving—for others’ sake, and for our own.

The Bible speaks of “the hope of our salvation.” Does this mean that we do not enjoy salvation now? This brief article addresses this matter.

Whenever folks discuss Christ’s restrictions on marriage and divorce, this question frequently arises. What is the meaning of the phrase “makes her an adulteress” in Matthew 5:32? Wayne Jackson answers this question.

Does it matter how you dress? Should dress be appropriate to the occasion? Most in society feel that it should—within reason. Let’s talk about this for a moment.

The article discusses Christian ethics in relation to legal responsibility and societal consequences of crime, using the Dahmer case as an example. It emphasizes the importance of truth, repentance, and facing the consequences of one’s actions, even for those who have committed serious crimes.

Are law and love incompatible? Not according to Paul. We fulfill the law of Christ when we love others like Jesus loved us. Consider the valuable role you can play in the life of someone who is struggling now under the weight of unbearable burdens. Through Galatians 6:2, Christ is calling you to help lighten your brother’s burden for the sake of his soul.

When “Sick at Heart” wrote to “Dear Abby” concerning her loveless marriage, Abby directed her to seek a “spiritual advisor.” One such advisor wrote in with his perspective. Was it spiritual? For advice to be spiritual and beneficial, it must be scriptural. Jason Jackson challenges “Reverend” Norman L. Conaway’s claim to be providing spiritual advice.

This article, originally published in 1993, addresses the book written by popular songwriter-comedian, Steve Allen (1921-2000), Steve Allen on the Bible, Religion, and Morality.

Are the chronological data of the Scriptures simply a meaningless waste of biblical space? What significance do Bible dates have? Read this article and note that chronology is vital to the development of the redemptive message of Christ.

The greatest teacher who ever lived was a carpenter from Nazareth. His benevolent influence is beyond dispute by even his critics.

Atheism is a philosophical system of contradiction and confusion. Atheists do, however, attempt to argue their case. In this article, we will analyze two of the popular arguments employed in defense of atheism.