In the Old Testament, this term denoted the firstborn offspring of humans or animals. The firstborn was accorded a place of special prominence (cf. Gen. 48:13-18; Dt. 21:15-17; 2 Chron. 21:3). 

Th...

“Salvation” is the result of having been “saved.” The verb “save” (sozo) had a variety of ancient meanings. It could signify to deliver, to heal, to liberate, to preserve, etc., depending upon the ...

Was the death of Jesus Christ a part of God’s eternal plan for human salvation? Amazingly, some have contended it was not—contrary to the explicit testimony of Peter (see 1 Peter 1:19-20).

May one contend that while the “law” was abolished by the death of Christ, nonetheless, the Psalms remain; and the Psalms provide authority for worshipping God with instruments of music?

In the book of Isaiah (55:1ff) there is a thrilling prophecy of the salvation that was to be made available as a result of the promised Messiah’s victory over death.

Can a person uphold the value of life and at the same time argue for the death penalty? The truth is — we esteem life as sacred when we support the principle of capital punishment.

Mel Gibson’s movie, “The Passion of the Christ,” continues to generate controversy —especially the prolonged scenes of violence. How does this emphasis compare to the Gospel accounts of the death of Christ? Read this week’s Penpoints for a discussion of this matter.

The earthly life of Terry Schiavo has ended, but the controversy that surrounded this case is far from over. How does one assess these tragic life-and-death situations which are fraught with difficult ethical questions? Ponder this issue with us in this week’s Penpoints.

During his earthly ministry, Jesus promised that, following his death and ascension back to heaven, he would “come again” eventually (Jn. 14:3; cf. Mt. 24:37ff; 25:31ff). When he left the earth, an...

Some, in leading prayer at the communion table, will refer to God’s death. Is this appropriate? Some allege that it reflects “more reverence” to use “thee” and “thou” in prayer, rather than the terms “you” and “your.” Is there validity in this observation?

The Bible is filled with affirmations of our Creator’s generosity. Every good and perfect gift is from him (Jas. 1:17). Surely our gratitude must be lavishly expressed for his graciousness. 

God h...

Some Bible students are puzzled that the writer of Hebrews uses present tense forms (8:13) to depict the passing of the Mosaic law. How are these to be explained in light of Bible teaching elsewhere that the law of Moses was abolished by the death of Christ (Eph. 2:15)?

Jesus once declared that he came to this earth to give up his life as a “ransom” for others (cf. Mt. 20:28; Mk. 10:45). The term for “ransom” is lutron. Lutron derives from luo, “to loose,” and whe...

Marriage is an “until-death-do-us-part” commitment. It ought to be approached from a joyous, yet cautiously-solemn, vantage point. Marriage should be embraced for wise reasons, not foolish ones.

The concept of eternal life is outlined in an abbreviated form in the Old Testament (cf. Dan. 12:2). However, it comes into full bloom in the New Testament revelation. Life and immortality are brou...

Prior to his death in 1999, Ron Wyatt frequently made tabloid news with his sensational claims of astounding archaeological discoveries. But what is the real story behind such boasts — still made by some of his disciples?

A “redeemer” is one who is qualified to effect “redemption” on behalf of one in need of the same. The term “redeem” means “to buy out of,” (Grk. exagorazo — ek “out of” and agorazo, “buy”), as in ...

The Bible clearly teaches that at the time of Christ’s return, all the dead will be raised from their graves.

In the Patriarchal age, Job seems to allude to the hope of the resurrection (Job 19:25...

Justice may be viewed from two vantage points. Divine justice is that which is between God and man. Human justice exists between men. 
Divine Justice

Divine justice has to do with the harmony bet...

The book of Matthew is especially directed to Jews (hence, the heavy appeal to the O.T.). It is designed to demonstrate that Jesus of Nazareth was the fulfillment of the Messianic prophecies of the...