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.

This article explores the meaning of Hebrews 10:26 and whether deliberate sin after becoming a Christian can lead to someone becoming lost. Wayne Jackson considers the context of the letter’s original recipients who were contemplating leaving Christianity and God’s willingness to forgive all sin.

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 Bible denies that man is saved by works of human merit. But what about “works of God.” Study this commonly misunderstood issue with us.

Another argument which denies the essential role baptism plays in our salvation is answered.

A sincere student wants to know how one can read Romans 10:9-10, which mentions only faith and confession, and then contend that baptism is essential to salvation. Wayne Jackson discusses the “analogy of faith” principle.

Recently we argued that God does not speak directly to people today; rather, he communicates his saving will through the Scriptures. A kind reader thinks that Paul’s experience on the Damascus road negates our conclusion. Jason Jackson responds.

Those who teach that salvation is solely by faith, without further acts of obedience, have a difficult time reconciling Paul with himself. Study this matter with us.

The book of Romans is magnificent in that it reveals so many aspects of the “righteousness of God” (1:16-17).

Why do some Bible verses seem to indicate some people were forgiven without repentance?

Does the church need more preaching on baptism? How does one determine balance in gospel preaching? Jason Jackson addresses this issue in this week’s Penpoints.

Are you ready? Are you a sheep or a goat? The Judgment Day is certain, and only through the teaching of Scripture can we prepare for it. The Lord’s teaching of Matthew 25:31-46 must be considered in view of the inevitable Day of the Lord.

When the plan of salvation is so easy to understand, why do some go to such great lengths to obscure it?

Benedict XVI, the current “pope” of the Roman Catholic Church, recently ignited a firestorm of controversy by reaffirming the oft-made church claim that salvation is found exclusively in the Roman Church.

According to the doctrine of dispensational premillennialism (a view endorsed by many today), the “church” was not a part of the divine plan of redemption initially. But that view is not consistent with divine revelation.

Faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love are all qualities the apostle Peter identifies as qualifying one’s salvation.

The book of Malachi states that Jacob was “loved” by God, yet his brother Esau was “hated.” This week’s Margin Notes deals with the use of such language.

Have you ever heard or read a statement that made you wonder how it ever could have been conceived? For example Bill O’Reilly, Fox News guru, said on national television that “the Catholic Church invented marriage” (WorldNetDaily, 2/10/2010). How does anyone that obtuse deserve a national audience? But he is not alone. Consider a few more quotes that are “simply outrageous.”

It is commonly alleged that Jesus, in John 6:37, endorsed the idea of “predestination” as popularized by John Calvin in the 16th century. Did he? Study this question with us.