Socially sensitive people are greatly concerned about the Palestinian-Israeli conflict that continues to rage in the Middle East. Unfortunately, midguided political and religious commentators are adding fuel to the controversy. Who has the legitimate claim to the so-called “Holy Land”? This week’s Penpoints addresses this issue.

Bible critics allege that Matthew and Mark contradict one another in their Gospel accounts relating to the “cursing” of the fig tree and the cleansing of the temple. This week’s Q&A segment addresses this issue.

When Peter refrained from association with the Gentiles at Antioch, Paul declared that he “stood condemned.” Does this mean that, at least potentially, Peter could have been lost? Study this intriguing issue with us.

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.

Many dismiss the authority of Paul as an apostle by accusing him of injecting cultural norms of the first century into his instructions to the churches? Is this a legitimate argument against his apostolic authority?

A reed is a symbol of instability; a pillar signifies a solid, immovable foundation. The church of today must ask: “Are we a ‘reed shaken in the wind’ or are we the ‘pillar and ground of the truth’”?

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.

Elijah was one of the great prophets of Old Testament history. Like all of us, he was a man of mixed qualities. Overall, he contributed significantly to the unfolding of Heaven’s plan of redemption.

Some attempt to argue that Christians are not commanded to give a weekly contribution based on 1 Corinthians 16:1-2.

The Mormon doctrine concerning the church is a maze of confusion and contradiction.

Why don’t most Christians practice church “feet-washing” today, since Jesus did say, “you ought to do this”? We are responding to this sincere question in this week’s Question period.

While it is the case that as long as we are in the flesh, and constantly harassed by death, there will always be some degree of “uneasiness,” in view of the victory accomplished by the Lord, we can approach the inevitable with spirits that are more tranquil.

Baptism is a very important rite in the divine scheme of salvation. But it is imperative that one be able to distinguish between the “essential” and “nonessential” items associated with the command. Study this matter with us in this week’s Penpoints.

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.

Suicide has reached almost an epidemic stage in this country. Many view it as an easy “exit” from this life of hardship and heartache. But is it?

Paul once wrote that the “marks of Jesus” were on his body. Let us explore that marvelous phrase.

Some Christians have never graduated out of biblical kindergarten.

Why does there seem to be a sort of new “romance” between science and faith? Is it because people of “faith” have been willing to compromise their convictions about evolution?

Did Jesus receive a fair trial? Part 2 of this study documents the various blunders that characterized the farcical “trial” of the Messiah.