How Do I Distinguish the “Literal” from the “Figurative”?
How does the Bible student discern the difference between passages that contain figurative language, and those that strictly are literal? There is much confusion in the religious world regarding this issue. Read this article and learn some of the interpretative principles that are involved in correct Bible study on this matter.
Does Matthew 18:20 Sanction Personal Assemblies?
Does Matthew 18:20 sanction the practice of forsaking the Lord’s day assemblies, in deference to private assemblies for social or recreational purposes? Some so claim, but what is the contextual significance of this instruction from Christ?
An Amazing Text of Prophecy and Providence
In the book of Exodus, there is a text that is thrilling beyond words to express. It contains prophecies of Israel’s future, and a promise of providence that is utterly baffling. Study this passage with us in this week’s Penpoints.
Was There Forgiveness Under the Law of Moses?
Why was forgiveness promised to the Israelites when the New Testament says their sacrifices could not provide forgiveness for sins?
Psalm 139 — A Magnificent Portrait of God
Fellow Workers for the Truth
How were some “fellow workers” (3 Jn. 8) received who had a commendation from the apostle John? While the “beloved apostle” commended Gaius, who “received” the church workers, others were censured for snubbing their noses, and treating the endorsed Christians like itinerate church cons.
A Tale of Two Cities
Why are some receptive to the gospel, and others so hostile? A case study of two groups may help to clarify the problem.
Was Paul the Founder of Christianity?
Was Paul the founder of Christianity, as some atheists allege?
Paul’s Prayer for the Weak
Second Timothy chapter 4 contains a commentary upon the forgiving spirit of Paul. It also underscores the breathtaking mercy of the One who knows the true character of our hearts — even when we don’t live up to the highest ideal possible.
Does Psalm 22 Prophesy the Crucifixion of Christ?
A critic has charged that Christians have manipulated the text of Psalm 22 to foreshadow the crucifixion of Christ. What are the facts of the matter?
Paul’s “Mother”
So many noble women have served in the kingdom of Christ. They do not fully comprehend their contribution to the Lord’s servants and to his cause.
What About Daniel’s Prophecy of the General Resurrection?
Did the prophet Daniel foretell the general resurrection of the dead at the end of time (12:2), or was this a mere figure of speech pertaining to some local event?
What Is a Publican in the New Testament?
Jewish tax collectors were hated in the first century. But Jesus loved them anyway, and they form the basis of an interesting profile study on Christ’s ministry.
What About the Bible and Slavery?
Does the Bible condone slavery? If so, how does the Christian reconcile this with the biblical concept of the intrinsic worth of every human being as a creature made in the image of God?
Take Heed Lest You Fall
Does the Bible teach that a Christian cannot ever fall away from grace?
The Jesus Seminar – Part 1
A response to the Jesus Seminar propaganda, as featured by Peter Jennings on ABC’s special, In Search of Jesus
The Wages of Sin and the Free Gift of God
An in-depth study of two contrasting ideas: what we’ve earned through sin and the free gift God has offered to humanity.
Rachel’s Tears
Rachel, the wife of Jacob, died in connection with the birth of her child, Benjamin. Centuries later the apostle Matthew refers to Rachel as “weeping for her children.” This was in connection with Herod’s murder of the male babies in the region of Bethlehem. What was the connection? Let us explore this issue.
A Survey of Interbiblical History
Between the end of the Old Testament era, and the commencement of the New Testament period, four centuries passed. During these times important events transpired that impacted the commencement of Christianity. Every Bible student should familiarize himself with this history.
Dispensationalism and Zechariah 14
Zechariah 14 has no reference whatever to a millennial reign of Christ upon the earth.