The Tamar Case: A Precedent for Christians?
Are extraordinary methods for achieving pregnancy, e.g., artificial insemination by a third party donor, ethically permissible? Some contend that “how” a woman achieves pregnancy is not a material issue. The Old Testament case of Tamar is even employed as proof. What does the evidence really show?
The Code of Hammurabi
The discovery of the Code of Hammurabi reveals several interesting ideas when compared to the Law of Moses.
Pass Over “The Passover Plot”
For some twenty centuries critics of the Bible have sought to discredit the scriptural narrative regarding the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. These efforts have all been characterized by a similarly frustrated and futile line of baseless argument. One such endeavor in recent decades was Hugh J. Schonfield’s infamous, The Passover Plot. In this weeks Penpoints, Jason Jackson reminds us of this anemic enterprise.
Does the English Standard Version Support Watchtower Doctrine?
The recently translated English Standard Version, in a passage dealing with the ultimate fate of the earth, speaks of the earth being “exposed” at the time of Christ’s return, rather than the common rendition “burned up” (2 Pet. 3:10). Does this translation provide comfort to the “Jehovah’s Witnesses”?
The Credibility of the Book of Acts
Professor Henry J. Cadbury of Harvard once pointed out that the book of Acts readily “lends itself” to establishing the “realism of the scenes and customs and mentality which it reflects.” Acts is accurate! Reflect upon this point with us.
Jesus and Laughter
An atheist’s laughable attempt to criticize the Lord’s teaching is exposed.
Science and Miracles
Christians need not be intimidated when certain “scientists” utter dogmatic pronouncements which disdain religion.
Two Questions: Who Died on the Cross? Thee or You?
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?
Does God Condone Lying?
Did God cause people to lie by sending “lying spirits” to deceive?
Why People Believe in Evolution
People do not believe in evolution because they have been led there by solid evidence. They are stampeded into the Darwinian community by superficial, emotional, and personal factors.
The Rationale for Evaluating Political Leaders
By what standard should one evaluate a political leader? Does the Bible shed any light on this question?
Nine Scientists Look at Religion
Richard Dawkins, prominent atheist, classifies religious faith as a “virus of the mind.” He and others of his kind desperately need to contract this virus!
Congregational Autonomy: Not a Shield for Error
The Scriptures teach that each congregation of the Lord’s body is under self-rule, but with limitations. Sadly, some do not recognize these limitations and jeopardize their fidelity to sound doctrine.
The Crucifixion of Christ: The Real Emphasis
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 Church Fathers: Benefits and Abuses
The writings of the so-called “Church Fathers” are valuable sources of information for that period known as the “post-apostolic” age. Unfortunately, the literature frequently is also abused.
Stars: A Creation of Mass Production
The Psalmist affirmed that “the heavens declare the glory of God.” In this week’s Penpoints, Jason Jackson explores some of the wonders of the starry hosts that decorate the night skies.
Examine me, Lord — A Study of Psalm 26
Psalm 26 is a thrilling example of a sincere man, most likely king David, who, in spite of personal weaknesses, was generally a man of integrity. He begs the Lord to examine his heart and bless him.
Bee-havior Points to God
For centuries bees have been the objects of careful study by scientists. They are amazing creatures indeed (the bees that is), bearing the imprint of divine design in so many ways.
Tutoring in the Shadow of Darwin
This article reviews the recent scholarship prize award by John N. Clayton.
A Letter from a Mormon
Our web site elicits much mail from our readers. Some of it is very critical. This article briefly reviews a letter from a Mormon gentleman in Bulgaria.