Are Infants by Nature Children of Wrath?
Does the Bible say that little babies are by nature born in sin?
Rationalizing Human Behavior
Original Sin and a Misapplied Passage
This essay addresses a verse commonly used in support of the false doctrine of original sin.
A Response to a Lutheran Pastor
The belief that mankind is born with sin is without scriptural or logical foundation. Yet the teaching is quite common among denominationalists. The Lord’s church has been attacked for not upholding this ridiculous dogma.
Ephesians 2:3 – By Nature Children of Wrath
Does this passage prove the Calvanistic doctrine of hereditary total depravity? Not in the least.
An Analysis of the “Salvation Army”
The “Salvation Army” is an organization that is applauded by most in our society. Undeniably, this group does implement numerous acts of benevolence among the needy. But is this all there is to Christianity? Do good deeds substitute for doctrinal soundness? Read this article carefully and put this issue in balance.
John Calvin and Grace
John Calvin wielded a great influence in the religious community on the subject of grace. His ideas are circulated in several denominations, and, tragically, have found their way into the thinking of many people.
Did Christ Literally Bear Our Sins on the Cross?
Did Jesus literally become a sinner on the cross? Or did he merely suffer the penalty for sin that we justly deserved?
Five Things that Will End When Christ Returns
The apostle Paul’s reference to “the end” in 1 Corinthians 15 examined.
The English Standard Version Study Bible – A Review
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 doctrinal error. Those using this edition should be informed.
The Baptist Church: An Historical Perspective
I grew up among kindly people of the Baptist affiliation. My father’s family was of this persuasion. A more gracious, benevolent group of folks could scarcely have been found. It was heartbreaking, therefore, to eventually discover that the church of my ancestry was unknown to the New Testament.
1 Peter 1:22 – “You Have Purified Your Souls”
A comparison of 1 Peter 1:22 and Acts 2:38 amplifies the meaning of “obedience to the truth.”
The Land Where God Is Not
The lessons learned from the Parable of the Prodigal Son – concerning the consequences of estrangement from God, and those qualities necessary for restoration, are treasures indeed.
The Controversy Rages: Mel Gibson’s “The Passion”
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.
Why Do People Refuse to Come to Jesus?
Jesus once proclaimed, “You refuse to come to me that you may have life” (Jn. 5:40). Why do some people refuse to come to Jesus?
Did Mary, Jesus’ Mother, Ever Sin?
Did the mother of Jesus ever sin?
What Is Worldliness?
The term “worldly” is not uncommon in our language. But what does the word really signify?
Coping with Problems
The Bible provides answers to many of our problems.
What Was that “Light” before the Sun (Genesis 1:3)?
Is the Bible incorrect in referring to the existence of “light” before the creation of the sun? What was that mysterious “light” on the first day of Earth’s history?
Does Psalm 58 Teach “Original Sin”?
A sincere reader believes that Psalm 58:3-6 teaches that infants are “born in sin.” But this is a mistaken view of the figurative nature of the poetic language. Study this issue with us.