Sometimes Christians are intimidated by the massive propaganda campaign advanced by the followers of Charles Darwin. One indication of this is the common acceptance of evolutionary chronology, i.e., the idea that the Universe is billions of years old. Some, in an effort to find biblical support for the “long-ages” of history presupposition, have argued, on the basis of Hebrews 4:9, that the “days” of the creation week were vast ages. This week’s Penpoints examines this argument.

Does any man have the right to forgive sins? Some suggest that Jesus granted this authority to the apostles, and then, through them, to others (see John 20:23). Can you explain this passage?

Why do our children succumb to apostasy when they reach maturity? What can we do about it?

Some contend this passage indicates that miracles are a present-day reality. Wayne Jackson explains why this cannot be true.

What will be the ultimate fate of those who never have a chance to hear the gospel of Christ? This is a question with which every sensitive soul struggles.

Bible critics have charged that Luke 2:1-3 is rife with historical errors. Yet the following points more than vindicate the great historian.

Does Deborah’s service as a judge of Israel authorize leadership roles for women in the Lord’s church?

What is the relationship between the Christian and the government?

Could Hosea’s assessment of Israel be applicable to the Lord’s people today?

The divinely prescribed method of church discipline is effective.

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.

Why does the Jehovah’s Witness’ Bible render John 1:1 as, “the Word was a god”?

The appellation of “Christian” is widely used as a category of people. But who, in fact, is (and who is not) a Christian?

Luke 17:31ff has been a confusing text to some Bible students. Does this section of Scripture refer to the destruction of Jerusalem (A.D. 70), or to the final Coming of Christ? This context is examined in this week’s Q&A segment.

The Old Testament identifies the father of Samuel the prophet as both a Levite and an Ephraimite. How can this be? Did the Old Testament writers make a mistake? Not hardly. Below is one possible explanation for the seeming conflict.

Have you considered the significance of “small things” — both good and evil?

Is it necessary to be a member of a local church?

The Old Testament has much to say about Jesus Christ. The following outline will prove helpful in learning more about our Savior.

On Sunday, before his crucifixion on Friday, Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem, riding on a donkey. The crowds worshipped him. What was the significance of the momentous event? Study this episode with us; it is rich with precious truths.

Does this passage teach that our salvation is strictly a matter of God’s arbitrary election before the world was made, irrespective of any choice that we might exercise in the matter?