John Shelby Spong, a retired bishop of the Anglican Church, has made a career of being a rogue “priest” who assaults almost everything that is sacred within the Christian religion. His outrageous ideology has been an embarrassment to many of his Anglican kinsmen. This week’s Penpoints focuses upon some of Spong’s theological aberrations.

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.

Is it fair for God to punish the wicked for all eternity? Some believe that it is not, and have, therefore, developed a doctrinal view that denies this clear warning of scripture.

On his way to Golgotha, Christ addressed a group of Jerusalem’s weeping women, and asked: “For if they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in the dry?” What is the meaning of this mysterious “green tree” saying?

We must plead the cause of the innocent. We must defend the sanctity of human life. For justice will roll down like waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream (Amos 5:24).

Did the first-century Christians employ mechanical instruments of music in their worship of God? If so, where is the evidence of such? If not, why did they refrain from such when instruments were readily available in that era?

The first recorded sermon of Paul occurred in Antioch of Pisidia (see picture of historical ruins). Some were converted, many were not.

Jerry Falwell is calling for a more charitable view, he says, towards the “gay” community.

Stephen J. Gould of Harvard University is probably the most militant opponent of Christianity in the nation today. Now, though, the tables are turned. Gould is on the receiving end of a fiery blast “and that from one of his own evolutionary colleagues.”

This article discusses the constantly fluctuating theories in the field of astronomy.

Why did Jesus appear only to his disciples following his resurrection? Would not an appearance to the Jewish or Roman authorities have been more effective?

Some allege that when Jacob uttered a prophecy regarding the tribe of Zebulun (Genesis 49:13), the declaration failed. Study this issue with us.

The ex-president’s high popularity is perplexing in light of his moral failures. This article addresses this paradox.

There are Bible commands and principles that obligate us to “come together” when we are able to do so, and no “flip of a switch” can satisfy those demands upon able-bodied people.

A critic has disputed the biblical position that water baptism is requisite for the forgiveness of sins. He contends that one cannot be saved by a “corruptible” method. But “water” is corruptible. Thus, it has no place in the plan of redemption. Does the argument have merit? Read this article and see.

Richard Dawkins, one of atheism’s most vocal spokesmen, blames the terrorist attack of September 11, 2001 on “religion.” But the article “misfires” and leaves the Oxford professor in the lurch.

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?

Babylon was destroyed for her pride. Jeremiah accurately prophesied this monumental event in ancient history.

The Mormons hope to shed the name “Mormon” in creating a new image.

How did the universe arise? Modern science hasn’t a clue.