Reflections on the Pope
Is the New Testament information regarding Peter consistent with the image of the pope? Do the Scriptures teach that the church of Jesus Christ was founded upon the apostle Peter?
New Testament Baptism: In Water or the Spirit?
Are we baptized in the Spirit or in water?
What Is Scientology?
Recently Hollywood actor, Tom Cruise, has provided considerable publicity for the movement called “Scientology.” Just what is the nature of this “religion”?
Is It a Sin for a Christian To Be Depressed?
“Is it a sin for a Christian to be depressed? I am depressed sometimes, and I feel guilty about it. Can you give me any advice?” Christians should have the “peace that passes all understanding,” which Paul describes in Philippians 4:6-7. But this assurance is conditioned on habitually fighting anxiety through prayer. In life, we will all suffer emotional downturns. But Christians look to Christ for comfort and support, and they will be blessed through the divine promise of peace.
Hand me a pill; my syndrome is bugging me!
Some protest the use of illegal drugs by a glazed-eyed sub-culture, all the while popping pills daily to cope with a variety of problems common to humanity.
The Yoke of Christ
Christianity is best for humankind because it fits us well. If you have burdens, come see what Christ has to offer.
Can Christians Speak in Tongues Today?
Is the gift of speaking in tongues still being given by the Holy Spirit?
The Church that Drove Jesus Out
In his letter to the church in Laodicea recorded in the book of Revelation, the Lord expresses his disgust with their current condition. What could have elicited such a response?
My People Are Destroyed for a Lack of Knowledge
Could Hosea’s assessment of Israel be applicable to the Lord’s people today?
The Dynamics of the Doxology
A “doxology” is an eruption of praise offered to deity. It glorifies God and is a commentary on the piety of the dedicated soul. Study this topic with us in this week’s Penpoints article.
Does “Free Will” Grant a License to Sin?
A critic complains that if human beings have “free will,” they ought to be allowed to do anything they wish. How does the Christian respond to this foolish charge?
An Invitation to a Wayward People
What will it take for a wayward nation to repent? Perhaps this lesson from ancient Israel is a helpful reminder.
Is Christ’s Coming Very, Very Soon?
An article, widely circulated in newspapers around the country a while back, announced that Jesus was coming “very, very soon.” Allegedly, “signs” in the Bible indicate such. In this week’s Question & Answer column, we respond to this baseless assertion.
New Expository Dictionary of Bible Words
Stephen Renn’s new Expository Dictionary of Bible Words is now available. Read Wayne Jackson’s review of this new Bible study tool. It will be a welcomed addition to the serious Bible student’s library.
The Use of the Preposition “Eis” in Matthew 12:41
In Acts 2:38 Peter contended that baptism is “for” (eis) the remission of sins. Since many religionists deny this biblical truth, they seek comfort in a supposed parallel that they imagine nullifies the force of eis in Acts 2:38. Some imagine they have found a solution to their theological problem in Matthew 12:41. But have they?
The Miraculous Insight of Jesus Christ
The Lord did not always avail himself of miraculous knowledge during his ministry, but when he did, he gave yet another proof that he is the Christ, the Son of God.
Preparing to Preach
Do Romans 6:3-4 and Galatians 3:26-27 Refer to Spirit Baptism?
Is Christian baptism to be administered by men or by the Spirit? Some believe that Holy Spirit baptism is in view in Romans 6:3-4 and Galatians 3:26-27. But will this idea stand the scrutiny of sound biblical interpretation?
Psalm 69 – A Plea for God’s Deliverance
Psalm 69 provides comfort to those passing through difficult times.
Seven “Laws” to Pray By
Does the privilege of prayer apply equally to every one? Are there limitations on objectives for which one may pray? Are there conditions regulating the effectiveness of prayer? Let us reflect upon these challenging questions.